“Strive to enter through the narrow door” (Luke 13:24).
It’s what we “seek first” above everything else (Matthew 6:33).
Striving has to do with contending, putting forth a great effort,
She or he has one goal in mind: to win the prize of heaven.
Nothing takes precedence over that goal.
Embracing the promise that everyone who believes in him,
follows him, and bears fruit for him will find the way.
Prayer to purify the soul, to hear the voice of God
Prayer to have a clear understanding of God’s plan
Work on each aspect of life to glorify God
Work on the purity of heart and soul
Work on faith, hope and love
Work to make our Father Almighty Proud. Amen.
… That we may lead a quiet and tranquil life. (1 Timothy 2:2)
The A-word gets a bad rap these days. Children don’t like it, teenagers hate it, and adults reluctantly learn to live with it. What is the A-word? Authority!
But today’s readings remind us to pray and even give thanks for people in authority over us. Why? Because authority brings more peace into our lives.
What happens when you hear about the latest tax increase or when your boss’s bright idea makes no sense to you? You may feel frustrated or angry. It may even ruin your day! But what would happen if you were to decide instead to pray for them and bless them? Maybe the next time you find yourself in one of these situations, try responding with forgiveness, prayer, and cooperation. Then see how you feel.
Forgiveness? Yes, forgiveness plays an important role in how we relate to people in authority. Maybe your boss let you down one time, or she seems to misunderstand you. Or maybe a local politician implements policies that go against your political and religious beliefs. Rather than becoming angry and condemning, ask the Lord for the grace to forgive them. You never know what events or circumstances have led them to this point in their lives. And the more you practice mercy, the more understanding you will become.
Prayer? Once you are on the road to forgiveness, praying for someone is a lot easier. Ask the Lord to bless that person. You may even want to thank God for putting him or her in your life and the opportunities that person gives you to grow in patience and faith. These inner choices will lead to much greater peace in your heart. And who knows? Maybe you’ll find new insights into how to work with that person more productively.
Cooperation? Have you ever found yourself wanting to contradict everything someone says, simply because of something that person did to you in the past? The next time this happens, think about whether it’s a matter of right and wrong or whether it’s about a resentment you can’t get over. If it’s a resentment, try your best to put it aside and find a way to cooperate. Let your actions and attitude testify to God’s work in your life.
“Lord, help me to bless those in authority so that we can all live in peace. Father, we are begging you to help us heal the world. Help us heal ourselves from all that bring us burden, war, dissolution, anger and hatred. Father, in your mighty hands we offer everyone we are praying for, those who pray with us and each and every soul in your land who are wanting to be in your kingdom. Help us all in our journey. We will not ask for anything that we don’t need in life but whatever your plan is for us. We accept and we believe in your promise our God. Help us through all of these, come to us and lead us the way to make you proud. Through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, all the angels and saints. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ we pray. amen. ”
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