Today I had the fortunate opportunity to sing at my church's confirmation service with the Archbishop of our diocese. Here I sat thinking before we began the service it was going to be just another service, I wasn't expecting much. I have always enjoyed this particular archbishop's homilies, however, tonight really touched home. From the beginning I began thinking or my own confirmation over 20 years ago. Flooded with emotions of excitement and sadness I held onto his words hoping even if for just a few minutes I could be filled with the same feelings I felt back then. As he began talking with the conformation cadidates I did feel like God was speaking to me.
His first prayer:
1.) Choose your friends wisely. I have always had a problem with this. I have never done a great job of making friends, partly because I am always afraid of rejection so it has always been easier to keep a distance and not let anyone close enough to reject me. However, looking back I think that God has done exactly what was right for me! While I may not have always had a lot of friends, as an adult the decisions I have made have given me true, honest, God loving friends, who support and love me. So yes, please choose your friends wisely. Just because others may seem "cool", it doesn't mean it is what is right for you. Choose friends that are builders, who inspire you better yourself, and fullfill your highest potential in order to get to Gods Kingdom. Find friends who can make you laugh and appreciate the world and the blessings you have in your life.
His next prayer for the youth:
2. ) Don't be Stupid, when I first heard this "Holy Man" the Archbishop say this to a group of kids I couldn't help but laugh so hard, because it is the truth. He also told them this bit of insight that goes right along with not being stupid, " God will forgive", "People will forgive", "Nature won't forgive". Sit and think about that for a while. As kids we hear not to do drugs, drink, have premarital sex, etc, of course in some cases it falls upon deaf ears, however, to the young folks sitting in those pews today I really do pray that they realize how powerful accepting God and being led by the spirit is.
There were so many pieces of wisdom that were shared with us at Mass today, if only, only they fall on fertile soil. I'll leave you with one final thought, while the Holy Spirit rains upon us all just remember that each plant produces different things, apples, pecans, cotton, etc. Keep in mind that he knows the plans for you, and you can not even fathom what he has set before you as his children.
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