We know from Hebrews 4:12 that, “The word of God is living and effective.” It is the voice of the shepherd who we about read in chapter 10 of John’s Gospel this 4th Sunday of Easter. This voice, this word of God delights us. We read this in Acts 13: 48, “The Gentiles were delighted when they heard this.”
Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform yourselves to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect.” It is the Word of God, the voice of the Shepherd that renews our mind. The Biblical truth of Jesus’s resurrection fills us with joy and gives us hope. It drives how we are to live. This is how we build our legacy.
We know from Scripture that God owns everything, and God provides us everything. In overwhelming gratitude, we put God first in every area of our lives. We give Him thanks, praise, and glory. We spend time every day reading His Word. We spend time with Him in prayer. We develop the talents and abilities He gives us the best that we can. We use these talents to serve others and make something beautiful with our lives as Jesus and the saints did. With the treasure we earn by employing these talents in the time He gives us, we uphold the dignity of all people, especially the poor, those most vulnerable amongst us, by supplying their need and making an impact in our community. This is who we are as disciples of Jesus Christ.
St. Padre Pio said, “Joy, with peace, is the sister of charity. Serve the Lord with laughter.” Be filled with joy at the voice of the Shepherd. Be delighted by the blessings God gives to you. Be a good steward of these blessings by praising God and giving courageously.
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