New Year’s Resolutions

When you see the title of this blog, you might think that I’ve gotten wackier! It’s only November, so why talk about New Year’s Resolutions?

Here’s why.  We are ending a year right now…it’s the Church Year. It ends with the Feast of Christ the King.  This past year we heard Luke’s Gospel proclaimed nearly every weekend, including today with the wonderful story of the repentant thief.  But next weekend a New Year begins with the First Sunday of Advent and its focus on Matthew’s Gospel.

 

So take some time today to remember some highlights of Luke’s Gospel. Maybe you could even read his whole Gospel in one sitting and notice Luke’s special themes.

       

Questions:  Is there a story in Luke’s Gospel that especially touched you this past year?  Was there a church celebration that was particularly memorable?  How did you grow closer to God last year?  What especially nourished your spiritual life? 

      

Now make some New Church Year Resolutions.  What can you do this next year that will help your spiritual life?  What new spiritual practice would you like to start this year? Maybe you could read the weekend Gospel before coming to Mass.