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Dear Parishioners,
Last week, we saw that the work of ministry is often frustrating, unrewarding and difficult. St. Paul however, told us that we ought to be content in our sufferings and hardships for the sake of Christ; for when we are weak the witness of Christ’s love is strong in us. (cf. 2 Corinthians 12: 7-10) This attitude is truly characteristic of the Christian disciple marching as to war with no other standard before him or her but the cross of Jesus. The love of Christ compels us; thus giving true witness to his love is our greatest honor. Jesus is our suffering Messiah, our King of kings, our good shepherd and Lord; whose glorious life, death and resurrection lives on in us, and we living in him.
In him, St. Paul tell us today that “we are chosen, destined in accord with the purpose of the One who accomplishes all things according to the intentions of his will, so that we might exist for the praise of his glory” (Ephesians 1: 10-14). But what if we find ourselves outside of this purpose? What if we respond like King Amaziah to the Prophet Amos, “Get out of here, religious fool; this is my kingdom and I am the lord of this temple” (cf. Amos 7: 12-15). Isn’t that what we do when we are closed off to the calling of God in our lives? If we say that God is not calling us, it’s because we are no longer listening. If we say that our ministry is to our own family and we have no time left for others, then our spouse and children are truly blessed to have us spend all our time teaching them of the glories of God, and praising his name with them in prayer. The truth is that each and every one of us can be better disciples of Christ; for some of us are not his disciples at all.
Brothers and sisters, it is the same Holy Spirit that we were sealed with as a first installment of our promised inheritance in Christ, and who will testify against us. (cf. Mark 6: 7-13) We must change our ways by setting our priorities right, hence serving God as we ought. The Holy Spirit was given to us for the work of ministry, and where his Spirit resides, the power and love of God are made manifest. Let Christ reign in your hearts and you will not grieve the Holy Spirit. Walk in the Spirit, and you will glorify God in bearing witness to Christ.
Peace and Love,
Fr. Ralph
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