January 2010

     

GOD IN OUR LIVES

 

In about the 4th Century B.C., the prophet Ezra went about recalling to the Jewish people the way of living that was in line with the laws God had given Moses. He had the people refocus on God and the joy they should feel because of their trust in God's providence.  Might the people have responded: 

Lord, I thank you for your faithfulness and love.
I will give thanks to you, O LORD, with all of my heart,
for you have heard the words of my mouth;
I will give thanks to your name,
Because of your kindness and your truth.
When I called, you answered me;
you built up strength within me. 

I think we might do well to dwell on these thoughts during this time of Renewal.  Most of us have probably had the occasion of calling on God for the help that only he could give.  We may have experienced the sickness or death of a loved one;  loved ones sent to what seem like unending wars;  significant economic difficulties, etc.  While these things were or are being worked out, we knew or know the presence and support of the God to whom we prayed and from whom we expected and received courage and patience. Without this sense of roots in God, we might be afloat in a sea of darkness and anxiety.  

Beyond these favors, should we not also think of the spiritual attributes the Lord has literally built into our interior castles giving us understanding and confidence in the life we are to lead? 

Think about our relationship with God: 

He was born to be just like us, except for sin. 

From His love, he has given us freedom of choice without which there is no love. 

He has shown us that our mistakes can be forgiven. 

He has given us a sense of togetherness including our life with those gone before us and with whom we live in the Communion of Saints.  

He has gained our salvation and shown us love through his crucifixion. 

He has shown His faithfulness by giving Himself to us in the Eucharist. 

So, today, it is useful to go back over these things and be thankful to the Lord for the patience he has shown us and for the courage he has given us.  But, more especially, we should be thankful for the Lord's being the loving Father that He is; for His having sent Jesus to show us how to live and, when necessary, how to suffer, and how to accept the focus, direction and joy of the Holy Spirit.  Will we respond:

 

Lord, I thank you for your faithfulness and love.  I will give thanks to you, O LORD, with all of my heart, for you have heard the words of my mouth; I will give thanks to your name because of your kindness and your truth. When I called, you answered me; you built up strength within me?