January 1 - Genesis 1-2 & Mark 1:1-13

As we start a new year, we can also commit ourselves to open our hearts to God. "God created the heavens and the earth" Not me, not you, not spontaneously out of nothing. God did! All that we love, all that we see, touch, smell and hear God created for our good. Let us appreciate the world and the people in it for it is all God's gift to us. Am I taking care of God's creation or abusing it? In what ways might I show my respect for God's creation?

Mark was not an apostle -- he was an evangelist. That is clear by the way he starts his gospel, "The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ [the Son of God]." There is no question who you are beginning to read about. Jesus is the good news. Jesus offers us the gift of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit dwelling in us from our Baptism guiding us to love's end -- God the Father. May we live in our Baptismal relationship with God today. Is there a particular person in your life that would be blessed to see in you God's love or forgiveness or care? As baptized missionary disciples, we are not alone, trust in God's presence and if that wears thin reach out to Christ around you in family or friends. The Lord is with you!