It's a new year and time for a new set of resolutions. Pope Francis has put out his list for us to think about this year. Here is the list - and some thoughts of my own to go along with them. Ponder, pray, and see what God is calling for you to do to be the face of Jesus to the world!
1. Don't Gossip.
Is it true? Is it your story to share? Is it necessary to share? Are you the one who should be sharing it? Why are you sharing it? Is it to make yourself look better? To make someone else look bad? Will you feel bad after sharing it? Remember, once it's been said you can't unsay it!
2.Finish your meals.
But I get soooo full at my meals! Am I supposed to eat all and get sick or fat? ... Learn from this time and take smaller portions! Use a smaller plate to help you portion down! What you don't waste can be used as leftovers and will keep you from purchasing other things which could be used to feed the poor in your community!
3. Make time for others.
Involve them in a conversation and especially take the time to LISTEN from your heart!
4. Choose the more humble purchase.
Instead of the $150 pair of shoes choose the $50 pair. Instead of the $50,000 auto, buy the $30,000 one with better gas mileage. Better yet, purchase 2nd hanad! Use up what you have. Take a portion of the money you've saved and donate it to a charity that helps the poor or homeless or infirm or imprisoned or unborn. Free yourself from the name brand mania! And remember: our consumer society is what keeps families and children around the world enslaved in factories which pay them pennies a day or less.
5. Meet the poor 'in the flesh.'
Help with a community dinner. Stop and speak to the homeless person on the street. Invite that person to a McDonald's meal. Ask that person his/her name. and PRAY for him/her.
6. Stop judging others.
Although we are called to judge right from wrong, we are not to be judgmental of another person. We are not to make ourselves the judge, jury, and executioner towards others. Pray for the person you want to condemn, Until you've walked a mile in their shoes you won't know the underlying hurts which lead them to what they are doing.
7. Befriend those who disagree.
You don't have to attend every disagreement to which you are invited. After all, it takes two to argue. Agree to disagree and shut your mouth! You may find out that that disagreeable person is someone who has a need to be heard - and after being heard just might become a great friend.
8. Make commitments, such as marriage.
So many are afraid to commit in case they change their mind . . . or for many other reasons. Marriage committed to after a prayerful discussion with God and with a heart towards loving your spouse like Jesus loves the Church is a blessing with unlimited rewards. However, this resolution is not just about marriage, but about making other commitments too. One example is for volunteering in the Church, Take on a position. Commit for a season. God has many blessings waiting to bestow on you. After that season re-evaluate and if the volunteer position you took on isn't for you, leave that one and take on something else! It's all about the journey. Make it a well lived one.
9. Make it a habit to 'ask the Lord.'
Ask the Lord about the big things and the little things. Speak to Him about all your worries and cares. Speak to Him about your joys and successes. He wants to be your #1 friend. He's already your #1 fan waiting to be asked into your life. Build a relationship with Him this year.
10. Be happy.
Work the other 9 and you'll be surprised to discover than #10 is the outcome!
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