The reality of being human is that throughout our lives we fall to sin and it can make us feel unworthy. We remember through, that because of God’s love for us, because he gave us His only son, Jesus Christ, we have been redeemed. The fact is that none of us is worthy, but we are healed by God’s love and forgiveness.
Recovering from an addiction is overwhelming especially for teenagers. One thing is for sure that, as stated in the third of 12 steps of recovery; “You must make a decision to turn your will and your life over to the care of God as you understand Him.” How can a strong faith and relationship with God help those who suffer with addictions to find hope and get on the road to recovery.
Sometimes satisfying our curiosity and seeking out an adventure can be as easy as opening a book. But most of the time, we need that first-hand experience in order feel a sense of thrill and accomplishment. For some of us, adventure can be simply trying something new or overcoming a fear. All of this is very good, and is part of how God created us to be. But like all things, it can go too far, and put us and others in harm’s way.
To be a servant and a leader may appear to contradict each other; but Jesus was both a servant and a leader. He showed humility and led by his example. He showed us the way to live, the way to lead and the way to love. He led by serving. Jesus was a true servant leader.
The catechism tells us that “The redemption won by Christ consists in this, that he came to give his life as a ransom for many” (CCC, 622). Jesus pays the debt for our sins so we can be reunited with God our Father in heaven. It’s vital that we experience the ongoing mystery of Christ’s redemption in our life. How difficult is it for us to embrace Christ and all He has to offer, including forgiveness and redemption.
St. Augustine is famous for teaching about the Eucharist, “Receive what you are, and become what you receive.” By the power of the Holy Spirit, the bread and wine at Mass become the Body and Blood of Christ. How are we changed by regularly partaking in this sacrament? And how can the presence of Christ within us bring about the transformation of the world we live in? Receiving the Body of Christ, we become the Body of Christ. We become one with Jesus.
What does the word sacred mean and how do we experience it in our lives each day? Can the sacred only be found in church, or religious objects? How do we recognize the sacredness that surrounds us every day?
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of God. This does not refer to being poor financially, but being humble in spirit. We empty ourselves so that God can fill us up. When we do this we grow deeper in our relationship with Christ and closer to the kingdom of God.
