We all do it. We sit and stare in awe of newborn babies. They are after all miracles. We look at their tiny features trying to figure out who they resemble. We wait for those very first expressions, that first smile. I can only imagine what thoughts were going through Mary and Joseph as they looked at baby Jesus. They already knew who He was, but had no idea how this was going to play out in their lives. It had already turned their lives upside down. Angels had appeared to both of them. The messages from God were clear, yet mysterious and created so much unknown. Mary answered confidently and humbly with her infamous “Yes”. Joseph’s vocation went from a simple craftsman to guardian of the Redeemer. His workshop literally became a tabernacle as he taught this Godchild his craft. Yes, everything changed! In the still of that cold eve, these earthly parents stared at this baby Savior in awe, and wondered what’s next?
As we wrap up 2022, we at The Place 2B need to continue to look to Jesus. Every day our “what’s next” is unknown. Every soul in need who walks through our doors is looking for some hope. Or maybe some purpose in life. Or maybe someone to just listen to them. Through my Cursillo journey and my months at FCP2B, Jesus has given me one clear message. Live for today! Stay in the present, and keep Me present in your life. Keep looking to Me for I am with you always. Those who come to Father Carr’s aren’t worried about tomorrow. They only are trying to get through the day, maybe the hour. I need to be where they are and bring Jesus to them.
Tomorrow is unknown, and the unknown brings unnecessary anxiety. I’m at my best if I live for today. How many days have we had our schedule all laid out and by 5:00 none of it was accomplished? It happens to me all the time. Yes Jesus, I hear You. You got this, and I need to trust You.
So enjoy each of the next 365 days, one at a time. Happy New Year from the Place 2B!
Pax Christi,
Jim
I’m compiling this post while sitting in our chapel inside the Mother Teresa Center. A beautiful nativity set came to us this year from a generous donor. As I stare at the baby Jesus in His manger crib, my peripheral view also collects the sight of the tabernacle and Christ crucified on the cross above the altar. To see all three images at once…there are no words…