Oddly enough, I think we are all of us in a sort of testing season, and none of us know how long that season will last.
The realization of the swift passage of time helps us not to become complacent and not to procrastinate. Scripture reminds us that our “days are swifter than a weaver’s shuttle.” (Job: 7:6) Blink and time passes, and we may have missed an opportunity. We may have neglected to tell others of our love, or we may have missed the opportunity to be kind; we may have missed the opportunity to share our faith. Lost opportunities cannot be regained. They cannot be regained in our personal lives, and they cannot be regained in the life of our court. Once we have missed the opportunity to act, to work together, or to support someone, that same opportunity may never present itself again. It’s gone.
However, there is no reason to despair. All is not lost. God in His mercy grants us new opportunities every day. Whether as individuals or as courts, our spirituality spurs us to action. We are all called to bring about the kingdom of God. As individuals, we are called to small acts of kindness or of patience. Often just taking the time to be with someone and to listen or pray with someone makes a huge difference in someone’s life. Our courts can undertake bigger actions. They can support shelters, they can work for justice, they can promote peace and understanding. They can be the example of women from different walks of life and from different ethnicities and races working together in faith and in harmony.
Although the Lords gives us new opportunities every day, our time on earth is limited. Let us not be caught having good intentions but making no effort. Let’s not be caught failing to reach out to others because we are too busy or too distracted—or because it takes too much effort. The opportunities that we are presented today may never present themselves again.
One way that courts can help bring about the kingdom of God is to share resources. I am sure that you are aware of the suffering caused by hurricanes, earthquakes, and other disasters. Our disaster relief program helps us support affected dioceses throughout the Americas.
Contributions to the Disaster Fund can be earmarked for disasters in particular areas. All monies contributed for Disaster Relief or any of the other projects and charities are used specifically as directed. Nothing is ever diverted from charitable contributions. Remember as well, that’s important to share close to home. Your reaching out in love not only helps meet someone physical needs, it touches someone’s soul. For people who are hurting, your face is the face of God!
This Lenten season, let us forgive freely, forget if at all possible, give of ourselves freely, share of our time and treasure, and most of all, let us be welcoming and accepting of each other. Together, even during these strained times, we can bring peace and healing. After all, when we do things for God’s honor and glory, CDA members Can Do Anything!