Friday 11^th July – Memorial of St Benedict, Abbot

REFLECTION: Hosea 14: 2-10

A NEW BEGINNING

Our God is a God of “a second chance”. He never ceases to give us the platform to draw back to him whenever we derail from His ways. There is a means through which we can always access this second chance that God gives. It is called “a humble and repentant heart”. (Psalm 51:17b). God’s arms are always wide to embrace us whenever we return to him with contriteness of heart. In fact, the opportunities the second chance offers us are far greater than the former. This is simply because the scripture says that the latter rain shall be greater than the former. This goes to show that our God is so loving and merciful.

You may look into your life and realise that there are some areas where you need a new life, some areas where you need God’s intervention or some ugly habits in your life that have defiled human wisdom. Today, God is offering you New Life on a platter of gold. Would you accept it or not? In this life, there is double portion of God’s blessings and favours awaiting you.

How then can you access this new beginning? It is as stated above: approach God with a humble and repentant heart through the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Come to God like a child comes to hid father. Come with boldness and not fear, come with trust and not doubt. Have faith in God who can turn your life around for good. When you have done all this, then begin to thank Him in anticipation for what He has done. It is in the midst of this praise that you will experience a sudden transformation. The New Life will then begin for you. Welcome to a New Beginning today as you heed His voice.

PRAYER: Lord, send forth your Spirit of renewal into my life today. Have mercy on me and cause me to be transformed by your love. Amen.

KNOW YOUR FAITH: CCC 1691: “Christian(s), recognize your dignity and, now that you share in God’s nature, do not return to your former base condition by sinning… Never forget that you have been rescued from the power of darkness and brought into the light of the kingdom of God.”

HIDE A TREASURE: “Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit”. Psalm 51:12 RSV-CE

Readings for Today: Hosea 14:2-10; Psalm 51:3-4, 8-17; Matthew 10:16-23