Before signing in to update my blog, I clicked on the daily quote link (in the sidebar). Here's today's wisdom from St. Francis de Sales:
"Be patient with everyone, but above all with yourself."
Wow!
As I listened for hope and help this weekend, God was speaking.
My sister suggested some verses from Romans 15: "We who are strong in faith should be patient with the scruples of those whose faith is weak; we must not be selfish. Each should please his neighbor so as to do him good by building up his spirit."
A few verses later I found: "May God, the source of all patience and encouragement, enable you to live in perfect harmony with one another according to the spirit of Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and voice you may glorify God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ."
Then there were the readings at mass yesterday.
From Saint James (3:16-18) came a reminder of gentleness, among other things: "Where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every foul practice. But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peaceable, gentle, compliant, full of mercy and good fruits, without inconstancy or insincerity. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace for those who cultivate peace."
In the gospel (Mark 9:30-37), Jesus speaks about receiving a child in his name and also about being the servant of all, both reminders to me of my need to embrace service rather than expecting to be served/have it all my way.
AND (it just keeps on going...) there was How to Get the Most Out of the Eucharist by Michael Dubruiel. Joe was serving, so we arrived at church 30 minutes early and I started reading. I didn't get far, but early on Mr. Dubruiel suggests that one way to participate more fully in the sacrifice of the mass is to, "...give up the desire to be in charge and adopt an attitude of service."
So I'm once again inspired (unlike you, kind reader, who are probably bored senseless by now) to start again, ready to serve with patience and gentleness. Feel free to pray for me. Thanks!
Evidence of the personal relationship that Christ wants with us. When we ask a friend for advice, we expect an answer. When we ask Christ for advice and get these sort of responses, it is more than just inspired friends and coincidence. More than just God working in our life and the lives of our friends. It is Christ listening to us and lifting us up in a way that only a friend who is perfectly truthful and forgiving and loving can.
ReplyDelete