Did you know that today is the first work day of the second half of the year?
How are you progressing with the goals you set for EOY 2018? You may have fallen behind, forgotten where you put your planning worksheet or may have not have even done a basic planning exercise. Regardless of where you are at – I wanted to let you know that today is the first day of the second half of the year. So, what to do?
Did you listen to the readings yesterday? Do not be afraid!
Many, many times the Bible says to not fear and don’t worry. We also heard it a lot from Pope St. John Paul II… but we still worry. It’s part of our human nature. Worry is multiplied purely because we are also business owners and leaders. We have a lot on our shoulders.
Sunday’s gospel should be a comforting reminder about who ultimately has things in control.
Christ doesn’t tell us “Don’t worry – work harder today” or “Fear not – power through it.” He says simply believe. It’s not “I know you’re afraid, but believe in me too.” He rules out the fear – it’s only – believe, just have faith.
A cousin of worry is discouragement. There’s certainly plenty going on in the world from a macro viewpoint all the way to our day to day work to become discouraged. Discouragement is one of the main weapons of Satan – so again we turn to Christ who says do not be discouraged in the face of set-backs, or disappointments. Christ says come to me and find rest. Depend on Him.
Here’s a practical daily application to move closer to Christ:
- Go to prayer first thing in the morning – Start with a single prayer of thanksgiving for the day. Thank God that you’ve been given one more day to make a positive difference in the lives of others through your business.
- When the day is done do a mini-examen of sorts: ask yourself when were you given an opportunity to act like Christ and you did and when did you fail to do so? Think about how you will improve tomorrow!
- Lastly – Write down a few things that happened that you were grateful for today. Integrate that growing list into your prayer life.
OK then:
Now dig up from the pile of paperwork on your desk, dust off or just complete your 2018 plans – close the door in your office (or keep it open – your choice) and yell “Nunc coepi! Now I begin!” – Venerable Bruno Lanteri
