“God’s plan is often wrought with suffering, and if we’re constantly trying to avoid suffering, if that’s our goal, then a lot of times we’re going to miss out on the trials and those things that God may place before us not because He doesn’t love us, but because He does.”

Part of being a Christian is accepting that we’re not perfect. How we respond to other people calling us out of sin says a lot about what kind of person we are.

We all have doubts about whether or not God hears our prayers. Today’s readings confirm for us once again that He always hears, He will act in His time, and His actions will always bring life. We just have to trust.

The Holy Trinity is a mystery that we can never understand. So instead of asking “how” the Trinity is possible, live out the “why” of the Trinity – which is love.

Happy feast of the Ascension! In this week’s readings, we’re reminded that the Jesus that’s in heaven, is the same Jesus who walked the earth. And we’re able to be united to Him through the Holy Spirit who He has given to us.

God’s desire is that all of His children be with Him in heaven. That’s why the Catholic Church isn’t exclusive but universal.

Love isn’t easy. True love requires selflessness and sacrifice. This is how God loves us, and this is how we’re called to love others, even when it’s difficult.

All are welcome in Christ’s Church; His arms are always open to receive His sons and daughters who want to return to Him. How sad it is if we, who are supposed to be Christ’s hands and feet on this earth, are closed off and unwelcoming.

If you witness to your faith, you’re going to be martyred. Maybe not in a bloody way like the apostles, but in your social life, or in your family. These sufferings are like the cross . . . but we all know that after the cross, comes the Resurrection.

“God so loved the world” means God loves you. Put yourself in the readings this Sunday because Jesus’ passion and death was for you. It’s your sins He died for.

God doesn’t want you living your life looking back at your past, or anxious about the future. Today He wants to offer you love and mercy. And today He wants you to be present to Him and everyone around you.

What if we lived our lives with God as the center instead of ourselves? During this Lent we have the opportunity to turn back to God, to repent, and to commit our lives to Him.

One of the graces of Lent is that we’re able to look past our immediate wants, desires, and temptations. When we have a proper perspective that focuses on God, our hearts are transformed to desire Him instead of earthly things.

Sin is real. And so is slavery to sin. That’s why Lent is such a blessing from the Church. This season is a time when we can slowly turn back to God in order to fully celebrate Easter. Now is the time for sinners to become saints.