On the eve of the New Year 2023, news about the passing of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI was shared world wide. He was the head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State from 19 April 2005 until his resignation on 28 February 2013.
Changes are inevitable, be it relationships, leadership, economy, climate change or life in general. There is always a ripple effect in all actions or inaction.
The Catholic Church has gone through a lot of changes and as each new papal is selected, so are new reforms going to take place, just like life in all its glory.
We need to take one step at a time, taking measures to ensure that the generations after us have a solid foundation to stand on and call their own. That is our responsibility. We must humble ourselves for humanity.
Now we all know there are those that would say, “why care, we’re not going to be here to enjoy the fruits of our labors”. Imagine if the generations before us had that mentality.
I’m going to share a verse from the Bible. Although I’m not Catholic, the meaning of this verse is vital for us to think about the issues we are faced with as we enter the New Year.
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:10-12)
If we are ill equipped now, then we are no better than a boat floating on open water without a rudder or a paddle, therefore we will lose the battle allowing others to take over the nation, the people and leaving a disappointing legacy to the future generations.
No one is destined to live forever. The one very important lesson I learned is no one is immured to life’s ugliness, too many to list.
However, if one learns to love and respect self and practice humility, then one is well rooted to tackle life’s challenges. And with the help of a supportive community, everyone wins.
Putting on “God’s full armor” is ensuring that no one is left behind, as with the three Musketeers, “All for one and one for all”
The responsibility of a nation does not rest on one person’s shoulder. Everyone has a role to play in order to have a sustainable nation. All hands on deck is a must in order to maintain the balance between economic, environmental and social sustainability. All life matters.
Changes will happen, we need to embrace them, be well equipped to deal with them, don’t let fear deter you from being a voice of reason, (in a tactful way) and always maintain humility.
Sincere Condolences to the Catholic Church and its followers on the passing of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI.
Changes
