WE ARE THE CHILDREN OF GOD
Genesis tells us that human beings are created in God's image and
likeness, and St. John tells us that God appears to us in our image.
In the days of
Christmas we have time during which we can reflect on its meaning. But if we've
been around for a decade or two, we know that we are never finished with
reflecting on this - or with acting on it. How do we remember the Lord is
always with us when confronted with life's difficulties? How do we consistently
and continually see God in persons when they are suffering, difficult, and
needy? The first of the commandments - the call to love is a life long task.
The end of another year urges us to evaluate our success and failures in this
matter for the months just past. The immensity of the task tells us that we
will always need our heavenly Father's grace to forgive our failures and
strengthen us in our resolve, "from the fullness we have all
received." In today's first reading, it confirms that with the anointing
from the Holy One, we also have the knowledge we need.
I read the
following in one the commentaries today. One of the finest Christmas sermons is
that given by Pope St. Leo the Great, beginning, "Christian, recognize
your dignity." St. John surely carries this idea to the next level.
"World, recognize your dignity." God wants to be part of it all.
Genesis tells us that human beings are created in God's image and likeness, and
St. John tells us that God appears to us in our image.
Points to Pray and Ponder: Today we need to be reminded of our dignity,
because often we are tempted to live far below what we are called to be. God
invites each of us to excel as a person for we are His children. Christmas, put
simply, teaches us that the human and the divine go well together. It's a good
fit!
How do we remember
the Lord is always with us when confronted with life's difficulties?