Running towards the goal!

One thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining toward what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal, to win the prize of God's heavenly calling in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:13, 14).

A year of your life will end today. What about when you look back?
Have you made any progress in your spiritual life?
Have you crucified the world with its passions and lusts?
Has your interest in the Word of God increased?
Have you won decisive victories over your feelings and sinful nature?
What is written in the books of heaven for this year that has just passed and will never return?

As you begin a new year, may you do so by resolutely making the decision to walk from progress to progress. Reach heights never before attained, and aim not at self-interest and pleasure, but at advancing the cause of your Redeemer. Never place yourself in a situation where others will be forced to come to your aid and set you back on the right path. You can be strong and exert a sanctifying influence.

Your soul can be constantly ready to seek the good of others, to comfort those in sorrow, to strengthen the weak, to bear witness to Christ at every opportunity. Honor God in all things, always and everywhere. Let your religion show itself in your every action. Prepare yourself for eternity with greater zeal than you have shown up to now. Train your mind to love the Bible, prayer meetings, the hour of meditation, and above all to love the moment when the soul communes with God.

Seek to acquire a heavenly spirit, if you wish to join the choir of angels in the mansions of the Most High. A new page is turned in the book where an angel records all your deeds. Do not be confused by the inscription that will be noted in this book when it is revealed to the eyes of men and angels.

P. Cléméntine