A Rightful Place (Steve Angrisano)Steve Angrisano‘s song, “A Rightful Place” inspired me to consider this important thought: Do I live my faith in a way that shows others that I am a follower of Christ; and that there is a place for them in His Kingdom as well? Living My Faith Out LoudThis Christmas, like so many before, I gathered with my extended family. We don’t have family traditions that include playing games or singing carols together. My family likes to ‘visit’. These visits include telling stories and catching up. They also include lots of food – and a glass of wine (or beer). Our visits can last for hours – probably my favorite part because we live far apart and definitely do not have as much ‘together’ time as I would like! While I try to practice temperance the duration of the visit can sometimes trip me up; and I find myself drinking just a bit more than I probably should. Alcohol is not an evil – Jesus first miracle was providing a fine wine for party goers to enjoy; however, it must be enjoyed with prudence. So, what does this have to do with ‘living my faith out loud’? Who I was vs Who I am Now I go astray (especially when enjoying a beverage or 2) in living my beloved faith in all circumstances. While called to be an authentic witness of the battle to be follow Christ in this world; it is perfectly fine to show my weaknesses and imperfection – YET Christ is calling me to constant conversion. HE wants to continually work at being a better version of myself. And while my family is well aware of my love of Christ and the Catholic faith when I am with my loved ones who knew me before my reversion, I struggle to be the ‘new’ me. I am not called to stand on a soapbox and evangelizing all day; but I am certainly called to witness to the power of Christ to transform a life. My words and actions should illustrate the grace abundantly given, but they knew me before – and they know who I really am. After most holiday events I don’t have a alcohol hangover I have a moral one because I know that I have failed more often than succeeded in showing Christ to the world. Even more disappointing when that world is those you care most about and want to share in the joy you believe awaits when the celebrations in this life have ended. Seeking ScriptureWhat’s a Girl To DoBe thankful for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Christ knows my heart, and he knows my weaknesses. St Paul spent most of Romans 7 sharing the human condition of knowing what is right, and yet failing to choose it. That tightrope of life luckily comes with a safety net – GOD’S unending love and mercy. Though it does not give me permission to just act as I wish, and then run to confession. Each time I am faced with the situations that cause me to slip or fall, is an opportunity to reach out to Christ for strength — maybe next time I will be braver to live my life out loud and in doing so show my friends and family that there is a rightful place for them, as well. Something to PonderIn what circumstances do I find it most difficult to be the new creation in Christ I have become? What strategies can I determine now to help me when I face those situations in the future?
I’ve been a #FanGirl of Steve Angrisano for a long while now… I am fairly confident after spending some time listening to his inspiring, worshipful and praise-worthy music – you will be one too. To Learn More about Steve & his Music visit: www.SteveAngrisano.com Follow the Entire Steve Angrisano Series:January 16 – A Rightful Place (Allison Gingras) January 23- My Soul is Thirsting (Debbie Gaudino – Saints 365) January 30 – I Am the Bread of Life (Michelle Gelineau – Give Him 5) and more… |
