"God has now reconciled you in the fleshly Body of Christ...to present you holy, without blemish, and irreproachable before him, provided that you persevere in the faith." Colossians 1:22-23
The conclusion of the Olympics and the Paralympics remind us that dedicated athletes, great leaders, and humble servants have the courage to persevere in the face of life's hurdles. That is what the author urges: "Persevere in the faith," doing good. Our faith in Jesus will sustain us. How? Faith fosters a healthy self-image. We are made in the image and likeness of God, and through baptism, the Triune God lives within us, and we live within the Triune God. With a positive, healthy self-image, people generally engage in constructive behaviors. We are forever seeking the transcendent purpose of our lives. Our primary purpose is to be in relationship with God and in that, our longings for happiness are fulfilled.
And faith gives us a sense of belonging. We are a community of saints and sinners who go back two thousand years, with heroes and heroines who encourage us in our pursuit of God and God's pursuit of us. We are linked by a common Christian faith. We gather in thanks to ask for God's mercy, to be illuminated with the word of God, and to be transformed into the likeness of God in communion. These encounters are all wrapped up in the mystery of the sacraments. And God gives us each other for support.
What are some situations in life that make me question my faith in Jesus Christ?
God, help me to become holy and to persevere in faith.
Today's Reflection is by:
Fr. Kevin Mackin
Did you know...
Fr. Kevin E. Mackin, OFM, of St. Anthony Friary in St. Petersburg, has served in parish ministry and chaplaincy, and as a college president and professor. His articles and books include Enjoying God's Gifts; Get Thee Behind Me, Satan: Rejecting Evil; and Christian Unity: The Next Step 'That They May All Be One.' His website is www.FatherKevin.com.
