By: Fr. John Jasica
FALL SERIES - THE HOLY INFLUENCER
LETTING JESUS TAKE THE WHEEL
This weekend, we conclude our fall message series. I know that Fr. TJ and I have enjoyed working with our Message Team bringing this series to everyone in our family of parishes. Fall is always a time for new beginnings---the start of the school year, the NHL and NFL seasons (go Bruins and Steelers!!) in addition to the many meetings, gatherings, ministries and events in our lives. It is often busy and at times very overwhelming---a perfect time to remind ourselves that the best way to live is letting Jesus take the wheel.
Surrendering control is something that is often challenging for me. I work hard and want to make sure things work out the way they should---but unfortunately, sometimes I get in the way of that happening. Over the years I have discovered the grace and freedom of surrendering control and continuing to follow the Lord and share the journey with others as we walk together to the kingdom. This series continues to remind me that Jesus is in control---and the more I give Him my heart and my life, the better things are for me and for everyone around me. Jesus take the wheel!!
INFLUENCES IN OUR LIVES
What influences who we are and what we do in our lives? When we step back and look at the bigger picture, we come to realize that there are a few basic experiences and practices that help shape who we are and what we do. These influences can be positive and negative in our lives. The good news is that we do have some control over those influences so that we can become the best person God has made us to be.
(1) CLOSE RELATIONSHIPS
There is no question that our close relationships influence our lives—both positively and negatively. This includes our parents, siblings, family members, friends and co-workers who we connect with daily in our jobs. I am so often inspired, strengthened, challenged and supported by those who are close to me trusting that they are looking out for my best interests.
(2) HABITUAL DAILY CHOICES
The choices we make each and everyday definitely influences our lives. When we make the same choices regularly, we create habits that shape what we believe, what we value, who we trust and how we act. Unfortunately, our culture today is filled with many different voices that compete for our attention, and most of them are not helping us become better people.
(3) GENETICS, UPBRINGING & OUR ENVIRONMENT
While genetics can shape temperament and physical traits, our upbringing can prioritize what we value and what we consider important. Our current environment, what is around us each day, also influences our perspective.
HOW DOES GOD INFLUENCE US?
In the gospel this weekend, Jesus is tested by the Pharisees and the Herodians. They are trying to trap him in his own words. They ask Jesus whether people should pay taxes to the emperor?
Jesus responds by telling them to give to the emperor what belongs to him but to give to God what is God’s. Our very lives belong to the Lord and the more we embrace this in our lives the more peace, freedom and love we experience and share. How can we best allow God to influence and change our lives?
(1) The Scriptures – If we are looking for a way to hear the voice of God in our lives---then we need to read the scriptures. This is the Word alive and on fire for us!
(2) The Sacraments – The gift of our Catholic faith offers us the sacraments that are tangible encounters of Christ in our world that feeds, heals and strengthens us.
(3) Daily Prayer – When we create a daily habit of prayer, reflection and conversation with the Lord the more we become Him in our world. It is our daily spiritual exercise that gives us strength and perspective.
(4) Family of Parishes – All of this cannot be done alone. God influences us the most through our family of parishes that becomes a central hub of grace, love, peace and joy. We help each other and are Christ for one another.
