Ordinary Time

Pause

Jesus, Light of the world, come and sit with me.

Shine your wisdom unto me.

Jesus, Light of my life, come and be still with me.

Direct me in your truth.

Listen

From that time Jesus began to announce, “Change your hearts and lives! Here comes the kingdom of heaven!”

Matthew 4:17

Think

Did you make New Year’s resolutions this year? If so, have you taken steps towards self-improvement as is the typical nature of such resolutions? Change is not easy to come by, which is why I’ve decided against my usual excitement and routine of establishing and publicly declaring any New Year’s resolutions. In fact, here’s my resolution: keep it simple and fly under the radar. How’s that for a confession of laziness!

Jesus sure isn’t lazy. Jesus encourages change when it involves a change of heart and a lifestyle that fits the kingdom of heaven. He knows, after all, how changing one’s life towards a purpose worth living for is what saves us. In that regard, change, while still not easy, is necessary and life giving. Maybe I’m ready for a New Year’s resolution after all. Are you?

Aram Bae

Pray

Light of the world, be the change in my heart and shape my lifestyle so that it reflects the kingdom of God. Bless me with your presence, a spirit of faithfulness, and promise of hope so that those around me will choose to live in your light, too. Amen.

Go

Christ my Redeemer, be alive and real in my life.

Christ my Friend, be near and true to your word.

Christ my Light, be honored in what I say and do.