Dear Friends in Christ, Saint John Vianney once said, You cannot please both God and the world at the same time. They are utterly opposed to each other in their thoughts, their desires, and their actions. This quote aptly describes what Zechariah and Elizabeth experienced in our Gospel today. Their relatives and friends were expecting them to choose the name Zechariah. But they knew in their hearts that it was more important for them to follow God’s word that they should call Him John and risk offending people, than to go along with the culture and offend God. It is the same for all of us who follow Christ. Sometimes, we are called to make decisions for God that others – even family members and loved ones – may not understand. These actions may come across as being “extreme”, “radical”, “unloving”, or “uncompassionate” to them. But that is one of the costs of following Jesus – the willingness to make a stand for Christ and His Teachings, even at the expense of being misunderstood, ridiculed or rejected by others; and the willingness of doing what is right, at the expense of being popular. We can only pray that one day, they will understand that it is not that we do not love them – our family members, relatives, and friends. We do. But that we are all invited and challenged by God to put Him first in our lives. Many people live their lives wanting to please everyone else, but God. Many people want to be liked by everyone else, but God. Many people live their lives wanting not to offend everyone else, but God. Many people would rather be loved by the world, than God. That is why this political correctness rubbish is so rampant in our culture. A King was born into the world who was counter-cultural. While many expected Him to come in power, He came to earth in poverty instead and chose to be born in a humble stable. While many expected Him to lead the people to victory over the Romans, He died a criminal’s death on a Cross. Many people did not understand Him. Many ridiculed Him and rejected Him. But to those who do believe in Him and who call themselves his disciples, He invites them to walk with Him down the same path. Do not be afraid to follow Jesus Christ, our Lord, Savior and King. God our Father, help us to be like Zechariah and Elizabeth who chose to obey You above all, in choosing the name John for their son, despite the expectations of their relatives and friends. Help us to courageously stand up for You in love and charity. God bless and Merry Christmas! Fr. Damien Wee
Posted on: Tue, 23 Dec 2014 19:32:28 +0000
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