Today's readings had me reflecting on the importance of legacy and the continued connection between generations. In the First Reading the Lord said, “Go tell David.” The Lord did not insist but “told” David to live his life according to God's plan and David, who had a choice-a decision to make-decided to live his life according to God's plan. The question for us today is the same as it was for David, will we decide to live according to God's plan with the bigger question, being, “What is God's plan for us?” In the Psalm, “The son of David will live for ever” reminds me of the importance of teaching and being a witness to my faith for my son and daughters along with all the other people in my life. I am called to teach others how to discern God's plan(s) and how to live our faith as were previous generations. As I reflected upon my image of God I was drawn to the phrase “My kindness is established forever”; in heaven you have confirmed your faithfulness.” Two of the faith lessons that I live and believe are; first, God's kindness and second, my anticipation and hope of joining God in heaven. From the Second Reading, it is only through our faith in God and in particular, our living of faith that we will “inherit the world”. To follow the faith of Abraham, we must first be taught about Abraham and learn about his challenges, struggles, and decisions. I have been fortunate, as I learned about Abraham through my Catholic faith community including Catholic schools and through my immediate family, that I have learned about faith-filled relatives. Knowing about these people has taught me how to live and to make decisions based on my faith and what I have discerned is God's plan for my life. I have always admired Joseph, who certainly lived his life based on faith and trust in God's plan for him. He is one of those people who has always appeared to me to have lived gently, in a very unpretentious manner. He shows us his humaness in making a quiet decision to divorce Mary until “told” to do otherwise. What a strong faith Joseph must have had, to listen and to follow God's plan for him. As a P.S.: My grade school experience reminds me to wear “red” in honor of Saint Joseph, so put away all the green from Saint Patrick's Day and find something red on March 19th, the Feast Day of Saint Joseph! |