November 2022
Reflections of God's Goodness
The coming celebration of Thanksgiving gives our faith a little push, reminding us once again that we are a people dependent on God, blessed by God in every way. Even in our darkest hour, God is present with us in our struggles and our sadness drawing us to Himself with love and compassion. This is good news indeed. We are not alone.
“. . . And behold I am with you always, until the end of the age.”
Jesus is so near to us. The Eucharist, offered to us each Sunday at Mass, is part of Jesus’ promise to be with us always. He is food for our journey and I am thankful for His presence among us and within us.
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, on your own intelligence do not rely; In all your ways be mindful of him, and he will make straight your paths.”
The approaching holidays can sometimes bring pain or sadness to the surface in our lives. One of our concerns is the young people and others in our lives who no longer believe in God or go to church. We are sad for them and for their absence. Where can they find evidence of faith or even of kindness in our world today?
So many have given up on faith. They don’t understand the Mass and no longer attend. They have forgotten or never believed that all good things come from God.
“Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers: all good giving and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, . . .”
We want them to know God and Church. Of course, we need to pray for our young people trusting that God can draw them into his life. Then, we can renew our own commitment and participation in the life of the Church. Try reading the gospel ahead of time and taking time each day to pray. We all need a chance to be still and hear God. As we attend Mass this Thanksgiving and every day, remember…
“Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
Thanking God is not a habit to cultivate just for this month but for every day of our lives. This practice will open our spiritual eyes to the presence of God in our lives.
Give thanks to the LORD, who is good, whose love endures forever;”
May this Thanksgiving draw us deeper into the life of the church and bless every person and family with grateful hearts and joyful spirits.
Blessings,
Sister Mary Ann Barnhorn, SNDdeN
“Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.”
