"Vanity of vanities, says Qoheleth. Vanity of vanities, All things are vanity! What profit has man from all labor which he toils at under the sun?" -Eccl. 1:2This is a question for all of us.
Do we find ourselves dragging ourselves to work each day? For our family's needs perhaps? To save up for something we ant to buy or to travel? Or maybe to prove ourselves the best in our work or profession? To pay for a huge debt?
Let us reflect on our daily grind.
Do we do all things for the Glory of God? or for our own selfish ambitions?
It has been like this for man since before Jesus' time.
But King David sings in his book of Psalms; "In every age o Lord, you have been our refuge." Because God has revealed to him "The Great Circle of Being", as Theologians say. Everything comes from God, and everything returns to Him.
Let us remember our mortality. Then maybe, 'work' will have a new meaning for us.
All things pass. Even the ones you are striving for: a new car, a house, gadgets, dining at an expensive restaurant, a vacation abroad.
King David continues to pray: "Teach us to remember our days aright, that we may gain wisdom of heart. Return, O Lord! How long? Have pity on your servants!" Ps. 90:12-13
We then ask the Lord, "Wait! For we have come to love you too late!"
But it is not to late. Even Herod the Tetrarch had the chance of knowing Jesus. ut the world and all its enticements prevailed because he wanted to know Jesus only out of his worldly ambitions. He tried though, ["Who then is this about whom I hear such things? And he kept trying to see him."]
Let us try harder than Herod. May our intentions be different from his.
In our daily lives, do we seek Jesus as someone who grants our prayers and wishes or material and corruptible things? Or do we seek him in order to have a more intimate relationship with him?
Jesus says,"I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through me." Jn. 14:6
Let's try to live out this reflection for a week. Here are 5 plus one, things we can do each day.
1. Good morning Jesus! Good morning Mama Mary! - say this as you open your eyes each morning. Let the first thought of the day be of Jesus.
2. All for you, Jesus and Mary! - offer your entire day to Jesus. Place everything into our Blessed Mother's loving hands.
3. Do God's will. Doing God's will is not doing great and good things occasionally, rather, it is doing the little things - yes, even the laundry! and doing it for the Glory of God.
4. Do one Random Act of Kindness each day. Even if you're a SAHM Stay At Home Mom, you can do this - think of a loving gesture (aside from keeping your kids alive) to show your child(ren). Plus one for the hubby too, it will do wonders for you marriage. For those who go to work, choose a co-worker who needs love the most.
5. Practice vocal prayer.
a. Morning Prayer
b, Angelus at 12 NN
c. Divine Mercy Prayer at 3:00
d. Evening Prayer
6. Extra Challenge : The Daily Examen.
Let us strive to sanctify our lives!
I pray that all who read this will come into a deeper relationship with Jesus.
I sure would like to hear from you. Leave a comment if the Lord has touched you through this reflection.
God bless you!
