Friday, August 20, 2010

Fervent in Spirit

St. Paul has a helpful formula for us as we come to the end of August and shift into post-vacation gear: "Do not grow slack in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord." (Rom 12:11). "Vacation mode" is good for the soul and body, we take some time to consciously "slack off" from our usual routines and schedules, and allow ourselves to relax, spend time with family, or do things we don't ordinarily have time for. The heat and humidity in some cases were blessings as they prevented a lot of us from "overdoing it" while on vacation. The result of taking time off is to recharge ourselves so that when we gradually evolve from this mode, we approach life and work with renewed vigor, energy and enthusiasm. In our spiritual lives we can again be zealous, that is, focused and intent; we can be fervent, that is, at peace within, firm and faithful to prayer, no matter how we are feeling, and thus, we can serve the Lord...directly and indirectly by helping people who come to us in need, or whose need we perceive. Yes, we can be alive, energetic znc joyful and thus spread hope and joy to others. May zeal for the kingdom of God consume us. (cf. Ps 69:10)
Bro. Rene

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