By Zoe Cannon
Gratitude for the Gift of Faith
…”yet I live, no longer I, but Christ lives in me; insofar as I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God who has loved me and given himself up for me” (Galatians 2:20).
Our spiritual union with God begins with our baptism. Imagine a world where every baptized Christian understood the power of grace within them! Our faith tells us that we are united with Christ, in his life, death and resurrection.
“This prefigured baptism, which saves you now. It is not removal of dirt from the body but an appeal to God for a clear conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 3:21).
During the Eucharistic prayer at Mass, we enter into the Paschal Mystery. We have the opportunity to participate in a moment so beautiful; it is hard to imagine. We are free to offer our concerns and praises to God and place them on the altar.
In the middle of these spoken words of Consecration heaven comes down to earth. The communion of saints — our faithful departed — are rejoicing with us as angels give glory to God. Be very attentive and intentional; it may only last a moment, but it will be the most important experience of your day. This offering of faith connects us to the grace of God.
Keep your minds and hearts fixed on things that are good, kind and necessary. Prepare yourself spiritually before entering into the Mass. This will eliminate the drifting thoughts we often have while sitting before God in our pews. God’s love never changes, and his gift of salvation is redeemable proof! We should ask God every day what he needs us to learn in our daily struggles.
Make sure your happiness is found in things acceptable in the eyes of God, the Scriptures and the Church. There is so much to be thankful for, the beautiful face of a newborn baby, an answered prayer or simply knowing you are loved. There may be times when only the grace of God can comfort and heal our human suffering.
Do we know what it means to truly love people well? God created a plan for marriage and family to lead the way in showing us how to love. There is more to love than making people comfortable. Remember through every emotion, smile or tear, Christ lives in you!
In 2012, I made a pilgrimage to Rome and had the privilege of climbing the Holy Stairs, Scala Sancta, inside the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran. These Holy Stairs were allegedly brought to Rome by St. Helena in the fourth century.
My slow and deliberate ascent on my knees of those 28 marble stairs was a life changing experience. It was humbling to reflect on Jesus scaling those steps to the praetorium of Pontius Pilate during his passion. I felt Christ living in me during those moments and the strength of his suffering became mine and still does when I need it most. Trust in Jesus and you will have faith! Allow nothing to keep Christ from living in you and you will feel loved! Amen!