Looking Back, Looking Ahead

Note:  I will not be able to cut another slice of bread until Sunday, January 2.  Happy New Year to All!!!              

The last day of the year always motivates me to look back on the last 364 days as well as to look ahead with hope and optimism to the on-coming 365 days of the new year.  We began 2015 with the same hopeful optimism as we wished each other Happy New Year, but little did we know of the bloodshed, the deceptions, the scandals, the suffering that would scare us and shake us to the core.  With the bold presence of an ISIS, more determined than ever to unleash its fury, fear and self-protection are occupying much of our time and energy as a world, and even in our own private lives.  Are feelings of dislike and distrust growing into hatred and suspicion?  Are we losing our peace? 
A look back also affirms the presence of God at work in this field of wheat and tares; there is much for which to give thanks, if we take the time to "count our blessings."  January 1st, is the World Day of Peace, as well as the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God, she who gave birth to and nourished the Son of God.  God came into this world to save it, so as bad as things might seem, we are assured that the victory has been won.  We need to begin our new year on that note and allow our faith to be the force that gives us joy, conviction and strength to restore peace and harmony in our hearts, our families, our workplaces, our world.
Bro. Rene