First Steps – January 15, 2018

One of my desires is to have wisdom—to know what to do and when to do it.  Granted, some decisions we make are relativity insignificant because the answer is right in front of us. However, it is here – in those moments that major decisions, answers to multifaceted questions that will have lasting consequences – that I need wisdom the most.

St. Teresa of Avila was a Spanish nun who struggled with major decisions. Born into a dysfunctional family, early in her life she was very rebellious.  Eventually, she sought a life of discipline that lead her to a convent.  After a stroke which left her paralyzed for over 3 years, she came to the conclusion that prayer wasn’t just the words said but an act of love.  In loving others, she loved God.  In loving others, she served God. She constantly prayed for wisdom so that God would guide her decisions.

Pray for wisdom in all things.

One of her prayers was:
“Govern everything by your wisdom, O Lord, so that my soul may always be serving you in the way you will and not as I choose.  Let me die to myself so that I may serve you; let me live to you who is life itself. Amen”

This week’s reading:

Monday – Romans 9-12
Tuesday – Romans 13-16
Wednesday – Ephesians 1-4
Thursday – Ephesians 5, 6; Psalm 119:1-80
Friday – Philippians 1-4
Please Pray for:

For 2018 and all those who will grow in Christ this year
St Paul’s upcoming Marriage Retreat
Our Nation and Leaders
Safe travels for all on the Youth Ski Trip