VIRTUES OF COMMUNITY LIFE – PART 3 (FATHER’S FAITH NOTES: DECEMBER 12, 2021)
This weekend we hear from St. Paul, “Brothers and sisters: Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice! Your kindness should be known to all. The Lord is near. Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
Continuing our reflection on the virtues of community life, this reading provides a list of virtues that St. Paul suggests are hallmarks of Christian life. Central among them is kindness. The logic of the passage seems to suggest that this kindness is more than just a human quality but is a fruit of grace. By taking our worries to God in prayer, with gratitude, we are filled with peace, which, in turn, overflows in kindness towards all.
This Advent, may we recommit ourselves to bringing everything, all our worries, all our lives, to the Lord so that we may receive His peace and, filled to overflowing, that peace may be shown in kindness to all.