Dear Parishioners:
Jesus frequently used the imagery of light vs. darkness. From our baptism we have been invited to walk as children of the light to let God’s light shine before us. I especially invite your prayers for our confirmation students in preparation for their Confirmation that the light of Christ guides them.
I have included some thoughts for us all as we all journey in faith towards our Lord, especially when we face difficult times.
Faith as Shield: Faith protects us from doubt and despair. It helps us trust in God’s love and promises. Strong faith acts as a shield against the attacks of evil.
Prayer as Weapon: Prayer is our direct line to God. It strengthens us and helps us stay connected to His will. Through prayer, we find guidance and peace.
Scripture as Guide: The Bible provides wisdom and truth. It teaches us how to live according to God’s will. By studying Scripture, we learn how to resist temptation.
Grace through Sacraments: Sacraments give us God’s grace. They strengthen our soul and protect us from sin. The Eucharist and Reconciliation are especially powerful.
Role of Angels: Angels are God’s messengers and protectors. They help guide us and keep us safe. We can call on St. Michael and our guardian angels for help.
Unity in Community: Being part of a faith community supports our spiritual growth. We encourage and strengthen each other. Together, we can stand firm against challenges.
Perseverance in Trials: Hard times test our faith but also make it stronger. Perseverance helps us grow in trust and reliance on God. We learn to stay faithful even in difficulties.
Discernment of Spirits: Understanding the influences in our life is important. We must discern what is from God and what is not. This helps us make good choices.
Living in Hope: Hope keeps us focused on God’s promises. It helps us endure hardships and look forward to eternal life. Hope is a key part of the Christian journey.
Moral Integrity: Living a moral life is part of our witness to Christ. It involves making choices that reflect our faith and values. Moral integrity is a defense against sin.
Spiritual Discipline: Discipline in prayer, fasting, and other practices strengthens our spiritual life. It helps us grow closer to God. These habits build spiritual resilience.
The “Armor of God” is a biblical concept that appears in Ephesians 6:10-18. In this passage, St. Paul urges Christians to put on spiritual armor to protect themselves from evil. This teaching is important in Catholic tradition, emphasizing the need for vigilance and preparation in the spiritual life. The “Armor of God” includes the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit.
In Catholic teaching, this spiritual armor is understood as God’s grace working in our lives. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) explains that we are in a spiritual battle, saying, “The whole of man’s history has been the story of dour combat with the powers of evil” (CCC 409). This combat is not just against physical enemies but also against spiritual forces that try to lead us away from God.
Blessings!
Msgr John Shamleffer
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