3 Rules For Catholic Men For Finding Good Mentors скачать в хорошем качестве

3 Rules For Catholic Men For Finding Good Mentors

Can you name 5 Catholic Mentors in your life who have formed you in faith? There are many men who have formed me and continue form me as a Catholic husband, father, and beloved son of God. My childhood and closest friend Rob, has showed me the value of humour, not taking yourself seriously, and allowing yourself to have a good laugh. Sacred art normally depicts Jesus as a stoic and contemplative man; yet we know he enjoyed life. You think Jesus never cracked jokes or made fun of his apostles? When I reflect on my life, it's clear, God has a sense of humour. My friend and colleague, David from @YesCatholic, holds me accountable as a brother in Christ. He encourages me to grow in virtue. My cousin, Fr. Stephen, who beat cancer in his 30s has shown me how to peacefully face suffering with fortitude. He has taught me how to listen when others speak. Our pastor Fr. Jeff, has taught me how to be intellectually be engaged in my faith and yet speak about it in practical ways. My friend Ante, has taught me the value of being generous even amidst material difficulties. He has taught me to trust in God that he will provide. Jesus is THE SHEPPHERD! But Jesus works through people in our lives. So we have to make sure that the people we choose to influence, mentor, or shepherd us have a firm relationship with Jesus or we can risk being misguided. --- Shepherds who have not attended to God's Sheep--- We have to be alert! There are many false shepherds who claim they know God and they know the Truth, yet they regularly misguide people. In Jeremiah 23:1-2 God condemns those shepherds who have led the people of Israel astray: "Woe to the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! says the Lord. Therefore, thus says the LORD, the God of Israel, concerning the shepherds who shepherd my people: It is you who have scattered my flock, and have driven them away, and you have not attended to them. So I will attend to you for your evil doings, says the Lord." When Israel had good shepherds, like David, Solomon, or Moses, they prospered. --- A Good Shepherd Will Lead You From Darkness to Light --- Psalms 23 emphasizes emphasizes God's leadership qualities. "...he leads me beside still waters, he restores my soul. He leads me in RIGHT paths for his namesake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil, for you are with me..." Which men in your life embody this virtue of servant leadership. --- A Good Shepherd will Inspire Courage and Peace In Your Life --- In John 14:27 Jesus says, "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, do not be afraid." In Ephesians 2:17 St. Paul writes that Jesus, "preached peace to those who were far off and to those who were near." There are so many people in the world today, including prominent Catholics who preach doom and gloom. This can all be very discouraging. Jesus had a message of hope for those who follow him. He did warn of doom and gloom, but if we strive to be faithful we don't have to worry. Look for shepherds and mentors who inspire courage, peace, and hope in your life. Is not better to live with hope instead of fear? --- Make Sure You Choose Your Shepherds carefully --- In this Sunday's gospel Jesus expresses his sadness for all those who are lost in the world like "sheep without a shepherd." As men we have the tendency to want to do things on our own. We want to be the hero in our stories. Without Jesus, our heroic aspirations can easily be overcome with pride. In the 2013 movie, Man of Steel, Clark Kent (Superman) seeks council from his friend who is a Catholic priest in his hometown, indicating the importance of his Catholic faith. Many people mistakenly start to worship Superman, but Superman does not worship himself. He turns to others for guidance. Gentleman, we need to choose mentors (or shepherds) who have our best interest in mind and don't allow our pride to get the best of us.