Tag: Catholic

Did I do one thing to improve myself today?

When I was in school, it was easy to find ways to learn and grow each day.  I was always finding new information to read and explore to improve my mind. I also had opportunities to exercise and stretch myself through physical education and sport activities.  Attending Catholic schools provided me with ways to grow spiritually through Mass attendance, daily religious education, and exposure to priests and nuns that taught in my schools.  After I graduated and began working, though, the opportunities to make myself better each day — intellectually, physically, and spiritually — were not always readily available.  It takes more initiative and effort to find opportunities and engage with them so I can continue to grow and flourish.

Who did I forgive today?

For those of us that live in large cities with miles and miles of freeway, it is inevitable that we have been confronted with drivers that speed, change lanes constantly, and veer into other lanes without warning.  I often find myself angry and frustrated by near misses from other drivers (and have had a few uncharitable thoughts and words about other drivers).  I struggled with my response and how I could better react to these situations that arise on an almost daily basis.  

Seeing God in the everyday moments in our life.

The spiritual journey is to love God above everything. To love with all our heart, mind, and soul.  We do this through seeking what is true, right and just. The Spirit draws us closer through both beauty and through pain to the truth. That we were designed by God for God. Our human nature causes us to forget. 

Do I make good choices in what I do and in what I avoid?  

We have entered into the season of Lent and are focused on the three great pillars of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving to prepare ourselves for the resurrection of Jesus at Easter.  For many of us, including me, Lent can become a time of focus on self-improvement or dieting (physical preparations) and not necessarily on the spiritual preparations for Easter.  Taking better care of ourselves, eating better, getting more sleep, and exercising more are all good things, but I think that God is calling us into something more meaningful and deeper to discipline and prepare our hearts and souls for the coming of Jesus at Easter.

Do I remember to pray for the needs of my family and friends?  

There are so many people that suffer, and in need of prayer and support.  My heart hurts when I see news reports of natural disasters, wars, violence, and injustices of every kind that impact people throughout the world.  I take time to add those people to my prayer list, asking God to protect and comfort them and to ease their sufferings.