Thinking with God

“Get behind me, Satan. You are thinking not as God does, but as human beings do.” Mk 8:23

Growing up on the streets of Yonkers, NY, loyalty was an important virtue. Most of us identified as members of a parish, and trumpeted our sports teams, our schools or the beauty of the liturgy and the choir as better than other parishes. Anyone who disagreed was quickly challenged to a contest, and while most of the time these battles lacked violence, it was not always the case. Baseball and basketball games might have a fight or two, but thank God they were quickly broken up by clear headed adults. 

Nevertheless, being the best parish was important, and although this kind of competition and loyalty had little to do with the Gospel, it was an important element of our faith as children, and something we had to reexamine as adults. Jesus was clear about this, especially in his response to Peter who wanted to fight for the Lord's dignity and integrity. Peter must have been confused and upset when the Jesus told him not to be defensive, but to listen with God's ears rather than as a tribesman. Peter was a new believer who had to learn over time what that would mean for his life and the lives of the other apostles.

There is no need for most of us to defend our faith or religious traditions. In fact, too often when we try to articulate our faith we do a poor job and diminish others beliefs. Rather, our willingness to discern how God sees the world and our place in it is critical to understanding and living the Gospel as an invitation to freedom and hope. The power that Jesus offers us, while having political and social implications, is not a license to destroy other communities or religious systems, but a summons to a life of humility and meekness which will help others know the God who wants us to build a community of peace and justice for all.

Today, ask God what God wants of you and us today

What helps you to think with God not about power over others?

Enduring Trials

"Everyone should be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger....and humbly welcome the word that has been planted in you." Jas 1:19, 22

James warns his readers that the Gospel life is difficult and will be full of trials. More important, he cautions everyone who yearns to live the Gospel fully not to overact but to respond by listening more intently, speaking less and avoiding anger, none of which is easy, but all of which is made possible by Jesus.

It is important to remember how challenged the first Christians were, especially after the destruction of the Temple in 70 CE. Broken by the loss of the symbol that meant so much to them, the Jewish community insisted that those who followed the "Way" of the prophet Jesus let go of their faith if they wanted to be included among faithful Jews. This trial broke many Christians, but more stayed, accepted their unclean state as Jews and left Jerusalem to announce the message of Jesus all over the known world.

Trials like those faced by the first Christians may not come to us, but the challenge of living in a society so obsessed with material success, wealth and independence are formidable. Believers must try to live a counter cultural life committed to the common good and focused on strengthening the body of Christ when most in our society choose personal triumphs over building God's Kingdom.

Today, pray for anyone you know undergoing a difficult trial.

What or who has helped you endure the challenges to your faith?

Preparedness

"The disciples had forgotten to bring bread, and they had only one loaf with them in the boat." Mk 8:14

The gospel can be such a delight at times. How did the disciples forget to bring bread? Were they expecting Jesus to multiple loaves all the time? Was one of them in charge of provisions but forgot that it was his day or week to make sure everyone could eat? Were they rushing for their boat to get to the other side of  the lake because a storm was brewing? Or were they becoming arrogant, believing that those wanting to meet Jesus would feed them. In any case, they had only one loaf with them and had to decide how to share it and how to make sure they would not be caught short again.

Being prepared for everyday can be hard work because most days nothing much happens. We wake, we go to work, we eat and sleep, and although these can be important moments, too often we take them for granted and fail to be grateful for the ordinary events and gifts each day brings. Worse, we sometimes think we are entitled to a good life with all its benefits when, in truth, each day of life is a gift and an opportunity to thank God and all those who make our lives rich.

A good spiritual practice for most of us is to begin each day with a simple ritual that reminds us give ourselves daily to God and God's plan. Some people light a candle and pray to be a light to others. Others sit quietly for five minutes and with each breath speak Jesus' name or repeat a word they have chosen that reminds them of God's enduring presence. The word itself or the breathing is not as important as as being faithful to something that reminds us of God's love for us and our responsibility to respond in love to others.

Today, take five minutes to imagine what your day will be like and determine not to take it for granted.

How do you prepare yourself to live the Gospel each day?

A different kind of Joy

"Consider it all joy, my brothers and sisters, when you encounter various trials, for you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance." Jas 1:2

Joy is one of the most important and essential elements of the Christian life. Unless believers exude joy, they fail to witness to the power of the Gospel. Set free from fear by the love of Jesus, Christians live fully in the Spirit no matter the personal cost and proclaim the love of God by the way they live.

Additionally, James reminds his readers that trials endured for the sake of the Gospel enhance the message of Jesus by letting all know that no matter how painful a life of faith might be, Christians will still be joyful in the Christ who will help his followers persevere by giving them the strength of his presence and love.

We can check our joy quotient by asking ourselves how joyful we are when others succeed and find peace. One committed measure of the Christian is the ability to put aside envy and jealousy in order to delight in other's prosperity. Most of us can do this easily with and for children and friends, but the Gospel demands we do it even for our enemies.

Today, ask to be joyful for others.

How do you understand Christian joy?