Bread from Heaven
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On the Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God, January 1st, our celebrating priest included some insight into the beginning of the new year.
He noted that while we always say "Happy" New Year, he tends to lean into the idea of hoping for "joy" in the new year. We don't know if our year will be happy, since happiness doesn't always come with discipleship (nor necessarily our human experience) but we can always have joy, because that is always found in our Lord.
It can be challenging to see joy through our heartache at times. To do so requires us to develop habits that have us turning to God in gratitude-- consistently.
When we focus too much on, say, our phones or social media, we can find ourselves spending hours upon hours on reels, recipes and mindless entertainment that does absolutely nothing to further our engagement with God. The further we move away from God, the more difficult it can be to experience true joy.
Look closely at how you spend your time. Breaking habits that distance us from God can be hard to do, but it is a wise person who tries to do so.
If you find yourself feeling discouraged, or empty, call on "Jesus, Mary and Joseph" to protect you and bring you back.
Have a joyful new year!
Email me at: jmctm2@gmail.com
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I am a Catholic blogger who holds an M.A. in theology from Augustine Institute. I have worked in Catholic ministry as a Catechist, Pastoral Associate, Director of (parish) Adult Formation, Director of RCIA/Religious Education and am a Lay Ecclesial Minister. I am a former radio show host and former columnist for The Catholic Times. I have been married for over 40 years; my husband and I have three adult children whom we homeschooled. I am passionate about sharing God's Word as a speaker and writer, wherever God leads me.
