At first you might think goodness is very similar to kindness (our last topic). But in this verse we do not mean being good, but doing good and pushing others to do good. I guess goodness is bigger than kindness. It is an attitude that should encompass our whole lifestyle. We start off by knowing that God is good all the time. And we recognize how we are trying to be good every day. As we get older, we are hopefully better and better at living the good Catholic life. Lent is a time to examine our personalities and see where we need to do better. Maybe what we give up is something that is a problem or temptation for us. Maybe what we give up will strengthen us for bigger challenges. Maybe we will add something during Lent to stretch our spiritual muscles and improve our devotion to Jesus. Throughout the 40 days, it is important not to give up on your discipline.
Psalm 25:7
“Remember not the sins of my youth or my transgressions;
according to your steadfast love remember me,
for the sake of your goodness, O Lord!”
The clearest example that comes to mind is Pope Benedict XVI, especially since he has announced his resignation during Lent. He has been our Pope for eight years, but his goodness stretches way back to his youth (hard-working student at Catholic schools) through two decades at Congregration for the Doctrine of the Faith (hard-working hardliner). He endured many criticisms by the media and even from other Catholics. Yet he has written abundantly for the good of the Church, and he sets a good example of Goodness.
Galatians 6:9
“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”
No comments:
Post a Comment