Authentic Witnesses

                At the beginning of St. Paul’s letter in this Sunday’s Readings (Ephesians 4:1-6), he starts off by challenging us to “live in a manner worthy of the call you have received.”  It can be a little intimidating right?  But that’s because we must be more than just Christians in name.  He goes on to list different attributes.

                Let’s parallel it to other daily life examples.  Is it not part of a buisnessman’s job to behave professionally?  Do they curse and argue with clients?  No! 

                As Christians, we are not expected to be perfect.  But we are always working at bettering ourselves through prayer, the Sacraments (Confession especially, in this case), and mentors in the Church.  And we must not always be “good” at church, but be an example of virtue and love in our everyday lives.  I like to see it as being part of St. Therese’s “Little Way.”  We don’t have to take on huge roles in the Church (that is, unless you feel so called.)  But we can perform small, good deeds with the best of intentions to please Jesus and save souls.  Let us go forth with this commitment as authentic witnesses of God’s Love!

It's not always easy to stand up for the Catholic Faith.  It can seem so contradictory and misunderstood by our modern society.  I didn't feel ready when a new acquaintance asked me for the specifics of what I believe.  I have spoken at youth group so many times, but this time, I was just getting past a spiritual struggle.  Yet I wasn't about to leave them with their false assumptions.
St Peter says "but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence.". (1 Peter 3:15)
Be proud to be Catholic and do not let people walk away with misunderstandings and bad first impressions.  At the same time, it's not about forcing it down people's throats.
Let the Holy Spirit guide you!

Facing Fear Head-On
I am not the greatest at following directions to places; especially in unfamiliar surroundings.  I had to walk about 1.2 miles by myself today while living away from home.  I have been going for ten minute walks lately, but I would just walk straight one way, then turn around and come straight back to the house.  But now I was putting all my trust in Google Maps to get me to the store.
It's in situations like this that I have learned to face my anxiety that 1/2 the struggle is removed.  Yes, I still struggle because of my learning difficulty, but I don't have to be afraid.  If we give in to our fear and avoid all the time, how will we become our trust selves?  Not all anxieties are that easy to overcome, but practice makes perfect.
God be Praised!  Always!