When we consider the people who had a big influence in our lives, often they were the same people who disciplined us the most. Maybe it was the teacher we disdained for being such a stickler about the rules, even though she probably taught us the most. Or maybe it was a grandparent who was not shy to let us know when we were not upholding the family name. We scoffed at their criticisms then, but now, when we reflect on those long-ago conversations, we think of them as sage advice.

So, who disciplines us now? Is it a spouse who reminds us when we are not doing what we promised to do? A co-worker who nudges us to remember to complete our part of an important project? Or maybe a friend who guides us back to our true self when we start to wander? The answer is probably “all of the above.” Their comments and shared concerns are valuable advice that help us. They discipline us, so to speak.

More important is the discipline that we exert upon ourselves each day – not discipline in the sense of punishment, but the self-discipline to do what is right in the eyes of God. We strive to be the very best Christians we can be, to please and serve God through our compassion for others and serving those in need.

But self-discipline is easier said than done. Think back to a month ago, to our New Year’s resolutions. How firm and committed we were on January 1st, to a dry January, 10,000+ steps a day, or attending daily Mass. Truth be told, probably close to half of us were not able to follow through on our resolutions for even a month.

So, how do we improve? They say that one of the best ways to discipline yourself and to achieve your goals is to team up with someone. Maybe this is the person you exercise with each day or someone you pick up every morning for Mass. Experts agree that when two people share the same goal, our sense of obligation and commitment increases tenfold, and success follows.

Who better to partner with on our most personal goals and aspirations, than Christ? For Christ is always at our side and more than anyone else, wants us to succeed and be the very best person we can be.  

As we go about our busy lives, trying to become better Christians, take the time to share your thoughts and goals with Jesus. In prayer, let Jesus know how you want to become better and ask Jesus to guide and influence you through your day, so you can live up to your own expectations and to Christ’s expectations of us.

With this dynamic partnership, there is nothing we cannot accomplish or overcome.