Thanks be to God we have entered a new year of 2021. The past year was pretty tough. Still, we surely have much for which to be thankful to God always. Let us pray this new year is a better year, that we can live in peace and security, that we can be safe and healthy, that the vaccines and other efforts will stop the pandemic and we will soon be able to resume normal gatherings and life, that we may freely practice our faith and do many acts of love, and that God may be greater loved and adored.
A personal thank you to all who sent me Christmas cards, gifts, food, well-wishes, and/or prayers! I always feel overwhelmed by love and support this time of year, and I never do very well at getting back the same to you—except be assured of my prayers for you.
One wonders what was in the wise men’s minds as they journeyed to pay homage to the newborn king. Likely, they were seeking and hoping for a king who would bring peace and prosperity to the world, but they found so much more. They found Jesus by watching the light of stars in a dark sky. Sometimes the light shines more brightly because of the darkness around it. Perhaps there is a lesson for us, to seek the light in our present dark world, or to be that light.
As we also begin a new year, and a new decade, let us take to heart the words of St. Francis, “Let us begin again, brothers, for up till now we have done very little.” Accounts say he said this up till his death. St. Francis never stopped loving and serving God and neighbor, and never felt he had done enough—it was “little” in his eyes. Now is a good time to begin again. What do you want this year to look like?
Let’s make this new year a time of greater prayer. We need it! I pray God blesses your Epiphany celebration and New Year!