Building on the reading from John, we see in Acts 2 the rest of Peter's speech to the people. He is telling them that God sent Jesus to be Lord and Saviour, through His death and resurrection. We only need to confess our sins and be baptised, then we will have eternal life with God.
In verse 40, what really jumps out at me is when Peter says, "save yourselves from this corrupt generation". The society of that time is not much different from our society now. We see corruption and the destruction of faith everywhere we turn. We are becoming a Godless society. Wealth and power is valued more than a humble heart and a desire to serve. Kindness has all but disappeared. Those who live on the fringes of society, the poor, the homeless, the sick, those who are just keeping their heads above water, they are all but ignored. These are the people that Jesus wants! These are the people He spent His life ministering to. These people often have the deepest of faith because they have nothing else to hold on to.
I can tell you, dear reader, that this is true because I, and my husband, fall into this category. It is my faith that is getting us through this struggle. It is keeping me from all but giving up. I HAVE to believe that God has a plan. There IS a reason for this, even if I can't see it right now. And that's what I'm trying to convey to you, dear reader. Even if things seem hopeless, if things are out of control, if life seems to smack you in the face, you NEED to hold on to the promises given to us from God! I know how it feels when you're struggling. Like God has all but abandoned you, start doubting your faith. I'm right there with you. But, if I give up, if I doubt my faith, what's left? Not much of anything. And that's not a place I want to be. I've been there. It's not pretty.
So, if you are struggling, if you feel God has put your pleas on mute, or has just left you hanging, don't give up! Keep reaching out for Him! He hears you! I promise!! You can always leave me a comment, even if it's just to ask for prayer. We hold each other up and God holds us up! So keep moving forward.. and, as always, regardless of the struggle... be a nice human! 😇
Father Bill's reflection on today: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSouhz4F-ZY
This video... such a living illustration of today's readings!! Please share it with others! It is "Alive (Mary Magdalene)" by Natalie Grant, from the movie "The Story": https://youtu.be/Om3mm2dv--k
No comments:
Post a Comment