01.15.2023 | Ordinary Sunday 2

It's the Second Sunday of Ordinary Time and the Prophet Isaiah tells us that we are to be "a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth."  I am thinking to myself that I feel more like a dim bulb in a dark room than a light to the nations.  How can I be a light to the nations, when I can barely lead myself most of the time?  Isn't that the question most of us ask ourselves?

I don't have an answer.  I feel a bit like the dried, dead leaves of winter sometimes.  How can I be a light?  How can I make a difference?  My only guess is that I have to start simply.  First in myself.  I need to see how I can turn up the wattage so to speak.  What small, simple thing can I do to begin the process of being a light?  Simple kindness is my starting point.  I've been working on it for a while.  Simply be kinder and gentler with myself and others.  Simply be kinder and gentler.

It's the Second Sunday of Ordinary Time.  My time of simple kindness and gentleness.  My hope and prayer is that you can be kinder and gentler with yourself as well.  It's been a difficult few years.  Many of us are still going through illness and hurt.  Be kind and gentle with yourself.  You are worthy.  As a priest friend of my always said, "God loves you, just the way you are, right now!"  Amen.