We are all called to be like Peter and rely exclusively on the Lord; to go out of our comfort zones and into deep, unfamiliar waters with the Lord commanding our boat. Think about a time when God showed up in your boat unannounced, and think of how you responded. Jesus has a plan for each of us, and the more we respond with trust in Him the deeper Jesus can take us into himself. Jesus told Peter, "Do not be afraid" - that message is for you, too. With that in mind, think about how you'll respond the next time He shows up in your boat.

Words and actions without love are only clanging cymbals. We live in a time where there are a lot of strong opinions and convictions that are often expressed in a very noisy way that's more like cymbals than it is like love. St. Paul defines that "love" as patient, kind, not jealous, not rude, not quick-tempered. It's relatively easy to have those qualities in our conversations with those who agree with us. It's difficult to live St. Paul's definition of love when we're in conflict or disagreement with someone - and even more so when you or the other is so entrenched in a way of thinking that there is no possibility of dialogue at all. That's when the clanging cymbals become noisier and noisier.
Our challenge is to be attentive to our conversations - at work, at home, at school, and elsewhere - and avoid being a clanging cymbal. Differences will always exist, but let's allow our words and actions to hold true to the Word of God so we can continue to build His kingdom on earth without caving in to the negativity and clanging of cymbals.

God has given each one of us gifts to be used for each other and in service to Him (and the rest of His family). No matter how old or young you are, there are times when you may feel you don't have any value or use. The truth is, God loves, values, and treasures each of us. Even if you do not know what your gifts are right now, that does not mean God wants to get along without you or that you're not important to him.

The attitude with which we approach all that life dishes out makes a huge difference. Inviting Jesus into our lives is key to maintaining a positive attitude, and He is constantly whispering to each of us, "Let me in." 

"You are my beloved child; with you I am well pleased." This is the truest, most fundamental thing about us. Claim that identity, let God in, and watch how your life begins to change.

The message of Christmas is that God is with us. Have confidence and trust in that, and when you sense that God has provided you a star to follow, follow it!

It can be difficult to recognize the people around you as being children of God when they live or believe differently than you. When you find yourself caught in difficult conversations or feeling irked, offer the following prayer: "Lord, expand my heart." The more we live our faith, the more He does expand our hearts to accept that we are God's beloved children, with all of our brokenness, and so are the people around us.

As Fr. Dave and Fr. Tony think back on memories of Christmases past, they remind us that God is eager to be with us in everything. Sometimes we forget to ask, but He will always come when we invite him in. He is eager to be with us, and when He's with us, life is a lot less scary and a lot more joyful.