Courageous Spirit: Weekly Message for 01-12-2021

Dear Friends in Christ,

Like most of 2020, this year is already providing more than its fair share of challenges, setbacks, and disappointments. As part of suffering humanity, we can be overwhelmed by the experience of fear, helplessness, and discouragement, which can lead to a hardening of our hearts. Worse still, we might be distracted or paralyzed from engaging in the work of evangelization we committed to. But we cannot turn from our mission; it would be infidelity to the grace of God and the complete opposite of what he desires for us.

It would do us good to remember that the course of history ultimately is not determined by political influence or earthly power but by participating in God’s salvific plan. Holiness and our ministry effectiveness are not measured by impact or influence but by faithfulness. We are witnesses to the Resurrection and, while there is much unknown and insecurity, we faithfully obey what we know he is asking of us. The Church of Christ is always marked by those who are willing to go where Jesus leads.

So how do we engage in this crazy world? How do we stay the course in witnessing to our life of hope with Christ? Jesus himself gives us sure but straightforward words of encouragement. 

“I have told you this so that you might have peace in me. In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.” (John 16:33)

We will have trouble. It may look different, but every generation faces its challenges of overcoming evil and strife. We all have problems; it is part of our human condition. Humanity will disappoint, and circumstances won’t always meet our expectations. Being a Christian doesn’t make us immune from suffering and trials. Instead, we must be fully present precisely amidst the circumstances bearing witness to our faith and hope in Jesus. 

Jesus is more significant than our problems. No matter what comes our way today, Jesus can handle it. He is all-powerful and permits everything for his glory. As we experienced this Christmas season, Jesus can do the unimaginable in showing us what he is willing to do to conquer the world. If he can perform miracles and rise from the dead, he can assist us in whatever we need.

Find your peace and security in Him alone. The closer we are to Jesus, the more peace we will experience. When I make time to pray, read the Bible, and make it to daily Mass, I always seem to find peace and discover a more significant purpose amidst the daily challenges. There is much out of our control, which provides an invitation to take a deep breath and let him do his thing!

We can’t forget our baptismal call and Jesus’ promise that he will be with us until the end of time. This world’s craziness offers constant new possibilities to rely on the Holy Spirit’s action. Be sure he will help draw your attention to Jesus, even when things begin to spiral out of control!

It’s people, not politicians, who make this country what it is. When I look around me, I can’t help having faith in the opportunity for God’s grace to be present and to see the good in others. 

Our prayer is that all the many products and services we offer here at RCSpirituality.org will help give you peace and encouragement as you face the ups and downs in life. The more you click around the site, the more aids to spiritual growth you will find. So please, click away! And when you find something you like, share it with someone. That’s how we help build the Kingdom of Christ, the only Kingdom that will last forever.

Before signing off, I want to thank all of you who helped us finish our end-of-year campaign. Thank you for continuing to support us with your prayers, suggestions, and donations. You help us to spread the Good News throughout the growing, digital continent.

May God bless you and keep you.

With the assurance of my prayers,

Lucy Honner
RCSpirituality Center | Director