Making Christ Your Priority 10-12-2008

A young man who was just beginning the study of musical composition went to Mozart to ask the formula for developing the theme of a symphony.  Mozart suggested that a symphony was rather an ambitious project for a beginner; perhaps the young man might better try his hand at something simpler first.

“But you were writing symphonies when you were my age,” the student protested.

“Yes,” the famous composer answered.  “But I didn’t have to ask how!”

The beginner in any field is often impatient, eager for quick results.  Yet the time spent preparing a firm foundation is not wasted time.  This is also true of those who seek a deeper relationship with God.  For most of us there is no shortcut.  It is a question of daily commitment- often in the face of discouragement, misunderstanding, and obstacles.  But, if we persevere, we can overcome the obstacles and find peace and inner joy.

Every day we are faced with decisions about what to say, how to behave and how to respond to stressful situations in our lives.  One sure way to stay on the right track is to spend time in prayer asking for God’s strength to empower us to do what is right, say what is just and act with kindness towards others.   Prayer is the greatest way to center ourselves and work towards inner peace and joy.
 
You know folks; this is the month of the Rosary.  Pick up your Rosary and pray it as a family, or take one decade at a time.  When you make Christ your priority, the rest of your life will fall into place.

P.S.  A three day festival had the most show of hands last weekend.  Thank you for your participation.

Do you know what I also learned from presiding at six weekend Masses here?   The Saturday 7 p.m. & Sunday evening 6 p.m. were attended by more visitors than parishioners by the showing of hands regarding the festival.  And several people stopped me after Mass and said they don’t belong to a parish because there’s closed.   I hope they know you are most welcome here!

Have a good week!
Love, Fr. Bill