2017 New Year’s Message
BCBP Community
Last week, the gospel reading dwelt on the story of the angel Gabriel appearing before Mary to announce what her fate would be as destined by the Father.
And after the angel had “laid it out”, so to speak, Mary’s simple reply was… “Be it done to me according to your word”.
The Pastor in his homily spoke about Mary’s act of perfect submission to the Lord, which both Joseph and Jesus also emulated, as an example to all.
YOUR WILL BE DONE.
A few days ago, we celebrated one of Christianity’s high points, the coming of the Christ-child on Christmas Day.
The baby Jesus is God’s special gift to all of us!
His coming not only underscores the Father’s unwavering love for all of us, but also gives us the assurance that we have been saved and are being invited to be one with Him, as in His divine plan.
As I boldly proclaim every time I have the opportunity to share in the breakfast, I have come to the conclusion that it was Jesus indeed who brought me to the BCBP to discover for myself the joy of living in community.
It is in the BCBP where He has made me experience His presence through the love and care among the many brothers and sisters who journey together with me in faith.
And it is in community that I am able to serve Him best, in the company of my BCBP brothers and sisters, boldly proclaiming His message of love and salvation in the marketplaces where we are sent.
While life goes on dishing out a flurry of things to do, chores to complete, issues to resolve and goals to achieve, ultimately we find ourselves caught up having to juggle many things simultaneously.
Sometimes the lure of more– money, influence, yes even work, get the bulk of our attention and time, at the expense of other important matters such as family, relationships and even personal prayer time.
As we welcome 2017, let us pause to thank God for His blessings, protection and presence in our lives.
Let us thank Him for the gift of Jesus and the BCBP community.
And let us give back to the Lord, that which He wishes from all of us—
LORD, MAY YOUR WILL BE DONE IN OUR LIVES!
A Happy New Year to you and your families!
Joey
