Reflection :: May 9

Parishioner, Charlotte W. shares the following reflection:

I have been a member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church for over 10 years and I enjoy being a part of the Youth Group the most. One of the group norms is to question what God requires of us, with the answer being “to do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with God.” I want to explore what these traits really mean instead of just saying it. So, what do these things mean to me and how can I show these traits in my everyday life?

Number one, To do Justice. I strive to do justice every day by raising myself and others up without putting anyone down. Volunteering or donating towards causes that help bring justice to those in need is another way I contribute. Although there have been significant changes in our community to bring justice, as a young person, I believe my generation has the potential to take justice to the next level.

Number two, To Love Kindness. The concept of loving kindness was difficult for me to grasp at first. However, I have come to realize that it means helping others regardless of who they are or where they come from. It's like showing kindness even to your worst enemy. Although it can be challenging, I choose to love kindness even when it's hard because it makes God proud and helps to smother hate with kindness.

Number three, Walk Humbly with God. This one had me stuck for a very long time, the longest out of all of them. Walking humbly with God means letting Him lead the way for you. Letting go of things isn't easy, but if someone or something was removed from your life, it was meant to happen. Although it may hurt, God will be there by your side the whole time, guiding you. All you need to do is trust His plan, even if it hurts. What always helps me is to remember that He chooses His strongest soldiers for the biggest battles.

So, when Laurie or Charity asks “What does God require of you?,” I try to really reflect how I have been able to show this and how I can improve what I’m already doing. I hope that everyone reading this will also try to reflect on what you can do to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God.

Charlotte W.