"I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.” (REVELATIONS 22:13) This is a reminder of how we should live our lives 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – putting God first in all that we do. Not only when I am at Mass and parish activities, but when I am in the world, at work, or at school. Living gratefully and generously is an intentional lifestyle. Every decision you make either moves you closer to God or farther away. Choose wisely!

Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.” (JOHN 14:27) Our limited human understanding cannot begin to understand the immense power of God. Instead of trusting in God, we often think we can control every outcome. Do you want to make God laugh? Tell Him your plans. The next time worry, anxiety or fear creeps in, thank God for all He has given you and trust that He has a better plan for you. Make God your first choice and not your last resort.

“I give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you also should love one another." (JOHN 13:34) “As I have loved you,” this is the hard part – Jesus’s love is unconditional; our love usually comes with strings attached. It is easy to love someone when they love you back. But it takes mercy and compassion to love someone when you feel unappreciated, feel used or feel like your opinion doesn’t matter. It takes courage and the grace of God to “love my neighbor” when they may be someone you don’t like, someone you don’t know, or someone that doesn’t look like you.

“The disciples were filled with joy and the Holy Spirit.” (ACTS 13:52) The disciples heard Our Lord’s call and were able to spread the Gospel message with strength and vitality. We, too, can experience that same joy if we make room for the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts. When we use our gifts in the way that God intends, He fills us with supernatural joy. A joy that others notice and are attracted to!