Changing Old Habits

A fellow priest friend of mine once quoted a paraphrased passage from the Gospels as a justification for why he never prepared his sermons in advance. ‘…do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At the time you will be given what to say.’ Well done him! I wish I were that gifted!

But preparing a sermon, of course, has nothing to do with what Jesus was talking about in that passage. He was making it clear to His followers how challenging life could be if they were true to Him.

And isn’t this true with any type of change? Those comfortable old habits and powers never like to be challenged, even when the evidence is clear that to change will create good and harmony in our lives. This is why Jesus remained such an outsider to the local Jewish establishment, and it's what eventually brought Him to the cross.

Jesus' promise to His followers is not immunity from pain or conflict as we strive to be good disciples. Rather it's a promise of both the wisdom and the spiritual grace and vigour to maintain a steady course and remain faithful. That promise is Jesus' invitation and His challenge to all of us to follow Him without fear.

If we trust Him and truly confide ourselves to His care, we will have what we need to be His disciples. What more could any of us ask as a life's work.


Lord God, You are our refuge. Whatsoever this life may bring us, grant us the wisdom and patience that it may never take from us the full faith that Thou art our Father. May all of our actions be guided by Your light. In Christ's name we pray. Amen



But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say. Matthew 10:19