Making New Year’s resolutions is a time-honored tradition. With the hope of a new year, we make promises to be better versions of ourselves. Some people vow to lose weight and adopt healthy lifestyles. Other people vow to pay off debts or save money. These are noble and worthwhile intentions.
Let’s resolve to improve our relationships with God this year. Taking this spiritual journey can spur a life-long transformation resulting in personal growth, happiness, satisfaction, and peace. “Find your delight in the Lord who will give you your heart’s desire” (Psalm 37:4).
Our focus last month was to look inward, examine our conscience, and reflect on areas for improvement. By reconciling ourselves with God, we took a step forward in building our friendship with Him. Perhaps one of the best ways to express our love to God is by loving each other. This month, therefore, we shift our focus outward as we consider growing in charity toward others.
Jesus teaches us, “I give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you also should love one another. This is how all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:34-35). Through this commandment, Jesus created a group of people identified by the simple and unifying force of love.
Love can be conveyed through basic gestures of consideration, such as compliments, forgiveness, patience, fidelity, and prayer for others. When we perform good deeds, service projects, acts of kindness, donations to charity, and expressions of compassion, we are showing the world the face of Jesus Christ. Consider making a genuine effort to take care of one another–especially the least of our brothers (Matthew 25:40).
We may at times feel that we are not capable of being holy. After all, we are only human. Yet, when we ask God for His help, His grace and power make everything possible. “I have the strength for everything through him who empowers me” (Philippians 4:13).
One act of love can create a ripple effect that can reach around the world. One act of love can have a lasting impact on humanity. Let us resolve to spread God’s will by seeking out and sharing acts of love–big and small–with each other.
Love generously. Love frequently. Love completely. Through the love of God, we can all experience a little taste of heaven on earth. Godspeed, and happy New Year!
Please inspire the group by commenting on ways you are engaging in charitable acts, as well as by sharing instances when the love of others shaped your life or helped you through a difficult time. Thank you!
