Path of Renewal

According to a reading from the second letter of St. Peter, “We await new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells. … Therefore, … be eager to be found without spot or blemish before Him, at peace” [2 Peter 3:13-14].

In this time of waiting, let us consider ways of renewing our commitment to God. Oftentimes, earthly wants and demands distract us from our true purpose in life. That purpose is to: Love the Lord our God with all our heart, with all our soul, and with all our mind. “This is the greatest and the first commandment. The second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself” [Matthew 22:37-39].

What Do We Want?

We may think we do not have enough time or energy to focus on God and to do His will, but let us ponder on how we actually spend our time. More likely than not, we are able to find the time to do what we most desire even if it means making sacrifices. The question we should ask ourselves is: What do we desire most? Do we only desire what is tangible and provides instant gratification? Or are we constantly searching for something better, but we are not quite sure what that something is?

When we focus our attention on God and believe He is with us at all times, our hearts, minds, and souls can be renewed and united in God’s love! It is in God’s merciful love that we are redeemed and as we work to maintain our Lord’s presence in us, we find ourselves avoiding the paths in life that are displeasing to God. We avoid sin. Instead we choose the path that leads to loving our Lord through our neighbors because what we do for the least of our brothers and sisters, we do for our Lord.

Do Not Despair

Granted, this path likely will be difficult because we need to shake off our old wants and desires as well as temptations that cause us to doubt God’s existence and His love for us. Perhaps our thoughts are clouded by our fears, anxieties, and worries which tend to overwhelm us and lead us to despair, causing us to look for the quick fix that provides only temporary relief.

Mary, our Blessed Mother, can help us on the path of renewal. Mary lived a life of faith, hope, and love. Our Lady never despaired; instead Mary pondered all things in her heart which was—and is— dedicated to the Holy Trinity. Perfectly united with God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Mary is our guide to redemption.

Named the Morning Star, Mary’s light directs us to the light of the world, the Son of God, who will come again. Only through our Lord’s redemption can our sins be thoroughly washed away so we can be pure of heart, mind, and soul, clearing the pathway to Heaven’s gate and eternal life in loving unity with God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.