July 2017
Reflections of God's Goodness
There just doesn’t seem to be much good news on the nightly broadcast recently. In fact, most of it is either “bad” or “sad" news. Even worse, it points to the changes we are experiencing as Americans and as Christians. It seems we are no longer, “the land of the free and the home of the brave.” Disagreements, especially political or religious, have become violent, over and over again.
We can tell ourselves that it’s the fringe. We can turn off the TV and pretend it isn’t happening. But what is it that we can do to bring back the freedom to believe, the freedom to disagree, and the freedom to live without fear? How can we encourage tolerance and respect in all circumstances?
During this month when we celebrate our freedom, let’s begin with gratitude for the wonderful grace God has poured out on this country since its beginning. “Let freedom ring”– we sing! Let’s celebrate our God and what is right with our country. Let’s remember that this freedom we sing about is most of all the freedom to do what is right.
Last month, we reflected on all the attributes of love, and hopefully, became more aware of our own efforts to love the people around us. This month I invite you to reflect on St. Paul’s words to the Philippians,
…in humility, value others above yourselves,
not looking to your own interests
but each of you to the interest of the others.
A good way to get in touch with changing your perspective in almost any situation is to live the words attributed to St. Francis and make them your prayer:
Make me a channel of your peace,
Where there is hatred let me bring your love,
Where there is injury your pardon Lord,
And where there’s doubt true faith in you.Oh, Master grant that I may never seek,
So much to be consoled as to console.
To be understood as to understand,
To be loved as to love with all my soul.Make me a channel of your peace,
Where there’s despair in life, let me bring hope,
Where there is darkness, only light,
And where there’s sadness, ever joy.
Once again, we can choose to be intentional in our responses, not only to the people we love, but also to the people we disagree with!
Blessings and peace,
Sister Mary Ann Barnhorn
Director of Development
Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving one another…And let the peace of Christ control your hearts, the peace into which you were also called in one body. And be thankful!
