Pastor's Column

My wish for you in the new year

Posted

As many of you who read my articles know, I like to draw some spirituality from old popular songs. Today, I want to do this with a hit song from 2006, sung by Rascal Flatts — My Wish. The songwriters are Stephen Paul Robson and Jeffrey Allen Steele.

My wish for all of you is expressed so clearly in this song:

“I hope the days come easy and the moments pass slow.”

Sometimes our days are not easy, and we don’t want them to go slowly because we just want to get through whatever it is that is troubling us or weighing us down. Jesus Christ will help you carry your burdens. Pray to Him. He is listening. “

And each road leads you where you want to go.”

Sometimes we are not happy with where we are in our lives. We don’t understand why or what is happening around us. God is here for us. He is constant and always with us. We may not see Him working in our lives, but He is. We must learn to be patient, prayerful, and trust Him. “

If it’s cold outside, show the world the warmth of your smile.”

We don’t always think about how our actions affect other people. If we share a smile or a friendly gesture, we can brighten someone’s day — perhaps someone who can’t see God’s plan or presence in their life right now. We can be His presence in their life at that moment.

“That your life becomes all that you want it to be.”

Never forget that God has a plan for you. We sometimes get impatient waiting for God’s answer, but God will take you where you need to be. We should pray and listen for His guidance.

“Your dreams stay big, your world small.”

Many of the saints — like St. Vincent de Paul, St. Louise de Marillac, and Blessed Frédéric Ozanam — were big dreamers. So believe in yourself and in your dreams.

“That you never look back, but you never forget all the ones who love you.”

How important this statement is! You should never forget those who love you, and you can draw strength from that love. The same is true for God’s love. He strengthens us and helps us through our struggles.

“You find God’s grace in every mistake and always give more than you take.”

We should learn from our mistakes and try to do better. God is a merciful God, and He loves and cares for us. He forgives us when we stumble. Ask for His grace and mercy.

These are my wishes for you. What are yours? Are they similar to mine — or far from it?

My wish for you in the year 2026.