Sunday, January 4, 2009

Fr. James's thoughts on the New Year

Most people in our country are well educated. It is common that people not only have a high school diploma, they also have a college degree. Many people continue their education and get a masters degree and some even get a doctorate.

Most people in our country have good jobs. They are successful and enterprising in their endeavors. It is safe to say that our country is a nation comprised of a people, for the most part, who are professional in what they do.

As we usher in a new year, wouldn’t be nice if we were professional in our relationship with Jesus? Wouldn’t be nice if we were to put the same effort that we put into our education and our jobs into our spiritual life?

What is it that keeps people from being professional in their relationship with the Lord? The answer can be found in one of the seven deadly sins and that sin is sloth.

Sloth is a disease of the will.

What happens to the individual ruled by sloth? People controlled by sloth don’t get anything accomplished. People controlled by sloth are targets for every temptation that the devil has to offer. They just lie there on the ground like cow manure covered with flies. Flies can’t stick to something that is moving fast. And people ruled by sloth have a real hard time getting into Heaven. They are too lazy to live out the demands of the Gospel.

If sloth is a problem for you, what can you do to get rid of it?

First of all, you have to have purpose in life. Once you figured out your purpose in life, you can fulfill the duties that are part of your state in life. Are you single? Are you married? Are you consecrated to God? Your state in life carried with it certain duties and obligation. Fulfill those duties with maturity, coherence, authentic and perfection.

Secondly, you need to have a strong will. Remember that sloth has been defined as a disease of the will. So, it is going to be important to clean up the will by making it strong. Make your bed with perfection every morning; polish your shoes; dress correctly; be punctual for church and your daily appointments; and keep your room neat tidy... (Continued here)

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