"Let us then throw off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light." These words from St. Paul in his letter to the Romans (today's second reading at Mass) remind us of the necessity of living a moral and upright life. We each have a purpose in this life. It is to walk humbly with our God.
I have tried to escape politics during this four-day weekend. However, a simple glance at social media can quickly draws one's attention to the rantings and ravings that continue to flourish in this post-election season. I am beginning to wonder if it will be perpetual bashing of people from this day forward. Civil discourse on ideas no longer seems possible. Attacking people generates more headlines than quietly putting forth a good, solid idea to improve the country.
I read an article today about the sheriff from Franklin County, Missouri humbly serving the people of that county for 24 years as sheriff. According to the article he has never spent more than $7,000 on a re-election campaign. The sheriff said he has tried to stay out of politics. That is quite a feat when you hold an elected position. I give a tip of the hat to Sheriff Gary F Toelke and others like him who strive to serve the people entrusted to their care.
franklincountymosheriff.com/command-staff
Obviously, the death of Fidel Castro sparked a lot of discussion over the weekend. The celebrations in Miami indicate the sentiment of people who came to America to escape oppression in Cuba. Meanwhile, some leaders around the world and some celebrities here at home offered words of praise for the deceased. That difference in worldview says a lot about the challenges facing freedom across the globe.
As we embark on a new liturgical year on this First Sunday of Advent, let us heed the admonitions in the Scripture readings. Throw off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. The world needs your faithful witness to Jesus Christ. Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, have mercy on us.
Have a blessed and holy Advent Season!
I have tried to escape politics during this four-day weekend. However, a simple glance at social media can quickly draws one's attention to the rantings and ravings that continue to flourish in this post-election season. I am beginning to wonder if it will be perpetual bashing of people from this day forward. Civil discourse on ideas no longer seems possible. Attacking people generates more headlines than quietly putting forth a good, solid idea to improve the country.
I read an article today about the sheriff from Franklin County, Missouri humbly serving the people of that county for 24 years as sheriff. According to the article he has never spent more than $7,000 on a re-election campaign. The sheriff said he has tried to stay out of politics. That is quite a feat when you hold an elected position. I give a tip of the hat to Sheriff Gary F Toelke and others like him who strive to serve the people entrusted to their care.
franklincountymosheriff.com/command-staff
Obviously, the death of Fidel Castro sparked a lot of discussion over the weekend. The celebrations in Miami indicate the sentiment of people who came to America to escape oppression in Cuba. Meanwhile, some leaders around the world and some celebrities here at home offered words of praise for the deceased. That difference in worldview says a lot about the challenges facing freedom across the globe.
As we embark on a new liturgical year on this First Sunday of Advent, let us heed the admonitions in the Scripture readings. Throw off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. The world needs your faithful witness to Jesus Christ. Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, have mercy on us.
Have a blessed and holy Advent Season!
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