Father Michael's Weekly Reflection

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Philippians 4:13)

Today is the 28th Sunday of Ordinary Time. St. Paul gives us a glimpse into his spiritual life. Last week he exhorted us to have no anxiety whatsoever. He was a man who lived detached. He thanked God when his needs were provided for and leaned on God when they were not. His holy indifference allowed him to see everything as coming from God's hand.

When he experienced his weakness, he felt strong. His strength and confidence came from God. Many times a human defeat is a cloud with a silver lining. Through them we learn humility, dependence on God and the need for prayer. A human success can lead us away from God if we attribute it to ourselves while forgetting the giver of every good gift.

Questions for Reflection:

• Do I have God as the reference point in all my actions?
• Does my lack of prayer reveal hidden pride and self-sufficiency to me? 
• Does fear paralyze me, or does the truth that I am not alone give me confidence?