Is There a Difference Between Happiness and Joy?

Fr Ralph de Hahn – Human happiness is dependent on our interaction with other persons, places and moods, and circumstances beyond our control. But the joy of the Lord is a gift and fruit of the Holy Spirit; it is an uplifting power within, an unshakeable trust in God. Jesus promises us:  “My own peace I give you, a peace the world cannot give, this is my gift to you” (John 14:27).

Break From Illusions

Our mental attitude will make all the difference in this new year. We will need to stand on firm ground and break away from past illusions.

If you are still waiting for a miracle to happen: Stop! Open your eyes, your ears and your hearts to the wonder that surrounds us right here on earth. We should be ever in love with nature and sing with Mary: “My soul rejoices in the Lord.”

Also, look around and witness how people grow older much faster once they stop loving. We should be ever-appreciative, taking nothing for granted. The gift of friendship is real and enduring. True friends will leave footprints in our hearts.

As we contemplate the mystery of life, we, as believers, are deeply aware that “nothing can separate us from the love of God” (Romans 8) and we are thankful to be guided by the wisdom of others.

Be contented with who you are and what you have — for this is how God sees you and loves you.

Always walk towards the light, and take your heart with you. There’s a broken world out there in need of compassion and love.

Learn to Laugh

Learn to laugh at yourself for all the silly mistakes and wrong turns you make on the journey.

Understand that true wealth is spiritual wealth, and that a faith that costs nothing, demands nothing, is worth nothing. All life is fragile, so handle with prayer; and when storms hit you, learn to dance in the rain.

Being kind and considerate is more important than being right. Surely, the essence in living the Christian faith is to touch the untouchable, forgive the unforgiveable, and to love the unloveable, as Jesus did.

Here’s wishing you a joy-filled 2018.