Reflection for the 2nd Sunday of Advent 2014

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The power of
one.

John the Baptist appeared in the desert proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. People of the whole Judean countryside and all the inhabitants of Jerusalem were going out to him and were being baptized by him in the Jordan River as they acknowledged their sins.

The power of one is really something.

The singer and musician Bono founded an organization called ONE that campaigns and advocates on an international level to take action to end extreme poverty and preventable disease. More than 6 million people have joined in as ONE. We also know the power of one vote. A look at elections over the past several years reveals that many are won or lost by very close margins. Every vote does count. A little research shows that many elections in the United States and elsewhere are won or lost by an average 449 votes out of an average 771,000 votes cast per election. A good group of those were won or lost by one vote. In mathematics, the number 1 is considered neither prime nor composite but in a class of its own. It is the multiplicative identity, so it is also a unit and a divisor of unity. John the Baptist was only one figure but prepared many for the Lord.

In Greek neo-platonic philosophy, The One is the ultimate reality and source of all existence. The Jewish philosopher Philo of Alexandria regarded the number one as God’s number, and the basis for all numbers. Every Sunday we clearly proclaim that we believe in One God. Advent presents us two ways to look at one and one point of arrival.

The first thing we must look at during Advent is ourselves. Do we see ourselves as ‘the one’ and others as them? In our singleness, our self-identity, our oneness – which is really aloneness – do we fall short of Jesus’ call to be part of His body? Do we serve ourselves and hurt others in the process? Or rather, do we use the gifts God has given us as individuals to build up His one body?

The other thing we must look at this Advent is the One who came into the world and is coming again. Are we letting others know how beautiful it is to be part of the One in the family of faith? Are we preparing to meet Him, not just on Christmas as a single day, but prepared to welcome, live with, and abide in Him for all eternity?

Advent is a time of focus. We will all arrive at one point in time, a single point where we will live in unity or disunity with the One. Are we ready to draw into union as one with Him? The power of the One draws us, calls us, drives us, and gives us a choice. The power of the One is truly beautiful. Let us join as one in preparing worthily for the One.

Job Opportunities as of December 2, 2014

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New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) – Administrative Assistant (Albany)

Salary Range: 30,000 – $39,000 (negotiable), (NYCLU has a generous and competitive benefits package)
Location: 25 Elk Street, 2nd Floor Albany, NY 12207
Applications Accepted through December 15 (or until position is filled)

Description: The New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) is one of the nation’s leading advocates on behalf of constitutional rights and liberties. Founded in 1951, as the New York affiliate of the American Civil Liberties Union, the NYCLU is a not-for-profit, nonpartisan organization with 48,000 members statewide. In addition to Chapters throughout the State, NYCLU maintains a small office in Albany, NY.

The Administrative Assistant will report to the Assistant Legislative Director and work closely with legislative staff in the Albany office. During the legislative session (January to June), the time commitment will be four days per week; outside of the legislative session, the time commitment will be two to three days per week.

Roles and Responsibilities: The Administrative Assistant will undertake a range of tasks and responsibilities that facilitate, coordinate and support the activities of legislative staff. In this role the Administrative Assistant will: Manage the office, including: Work with vendors to coordinate and complete repairs and set-up of office systems, including phone and internet support and general maintenance; Keep an inventory of office supplies and order new supplies when necessary; Correspond with building landlord regarding office repairs and maintenance; Maintain department staff calendars; assist with scheduling; Assist with answering phone calls, directing calls to appropriate staff, and taking messages; Assist staff in planning and facilitating meetings: scheduling, drafting materials, conducting outreach, and providing general support in conducting meetings, including setting up and taking notes; Manage and maintain a database of professional contacts, which involves entering data and sharing information on a regular basis with Legislative staff; Provide general administrative support to Legislative staff; Maintain confidential records and files; Prepare reimbursement requests and reconciles monthly expenses; Maintain and update files and computer programs; and Coordinate with other staff in NYC and throughout the state.

Experience and Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree preferred or related education/technical training in office management and administrative sciences/technology. Directly related work (paid or volunteer) to the duties of the position or the mission of NYCLU is desirable. We are looking for someone with: Proven organizational, writing and oral communication skills; Excellent interpersonal skills; The ability to work both independently and collaboratively; Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and related technical skills. A successful candidate must be able to: Show initiative and pay attention to detail; Maintain confidentiality; Work effectively with a diverse and multicultural workforce and constituency; Demonstrate familiarity with or interest in the civil liberties and civil rights issues that form the basis of the NYCLU mission.

How To Apply: Applicants should E-mail a cover letter with “Administrative Assistant” in the subject line that includes: A statement that describes your unique qualifications and interest in the position; Your ability to work the part-time schedule described; and, Your salary requirements.

City of Schenectady – Commissioner of General Services (Permanent)

There is a full-time opening for a permanent Commissioner of General Services. See attached for job description and minimum qualifications. Must possess a P.E. license, have strong leadership qualities, and broad experience with modern technology and computers. Applicants must be residents of the City of Schenectady and remain residents throughout employment.

All interested parties should submit completed City of Schenectady Applications or resumes to:

Tiffany White, Jr. Personnel & Benefits Administrator
City Hall, Room 105
Schenectady NY 12305

Resumes may also be E-mailed.

Completed applications/resumes and salary requirements need to be received in the Personnel & Benefits Administrator’s Office (City Hall, Room 105) by 4:00 PM on December 15, 2014.

City of Schenectady – Civilian Supervisor of Traffic Services (Provisional)

There is a full-time opening for a provisional Civilian Supervisor of Traffic Services position in the Police Department. The annual salary is $38,920. See attached for job description and minimum qualifications. Applicants must be residents of the City of Schenectady and remain residents throughout employment.

All interested parties should submit completed City of Schenectady Applications or resumes to:

Tiffany White, Jr. Personnel & Benefits Administrator
City Hall, Room 105
Schenectady NY 12305

Resumes may also be E-mailed.

Completed applications/resumes need to be received in the Personnel & Benefits Administrator’s Office (City Hall, Room 105) by 5:00 PM on December 15, 2014.

U.S. Census Bureau – Temporary Field Representatives

The U.S. Census Bureau – New York Regional Office is hiring over 100 temporary field representatives in the Albany metropolitan area (Albany, Rensselaer, Schenectady, Schoharie and Saratoga counties) for the American Housing Survey (AHS). This survey is sponsored by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to collect data on the characteristics of the nation’s housing units and households.

Hiring selections will start as early as winter 2014, and work assignments will go from May through August 2015. Applicants must have a car and valid driver’s license, be a U.S. Citizen and pass a written test. Internet access is desirable. They must pass a basic skills test in order to be interviewed and considered for this position. Former Census 2010 employees must reapply and be tested to be considered for these vacancies. Background checks will be conducted as well as reference checks.

To learn more about job requirements and testing sessions in your area send an E-mail with your name, zip code and phone number.

The hourly salary is $12.07 plus $0.56 per mile reimbursement. This is a temporary part-time position.

SUNY System Administration – Vacancies

Vacancies include General Counsel, Graphic Designer, Assistant Financial Analyst – Capital Asset Reporting, SUNY Global Center Lead IT Support Analyst, and SUNY Global Center IT Support Analyst. See the attached posting for details.

St. Catherine’s Center for Children – Position Vacancies

Please indicate the position(s) you are applying for when submitting your resume/application to:

Director of Human Resources
St. Catherine’s Center for Children
40 North Main Avenue
Albany, NY 12203

Or by E-mail.

Overnight Maintenance/Resident Assistant: Needed for our homeless shelter. The position is a temporary position which could become permanent. The duties of the position are: to perform tasks necessary to maintain the physical appearance and functioning of the building and property; serve to ensure a safe, secure, healthy, clean and positive environment for families residing in facility; and maintain respect, support, care, and a family atmosphere for residents of the facility and fellow staff members.

Requirements are: HS diploma or GED equivalent, a valid NYS Driver License and the ability to meet agency driving criteria. Needs to be physically capable of performing heavy work. EOE

Resident Assistant Full-Time: The Resident Assistant assists families as they make their transition from homelessness through after care. The Resident Assistant needs to maintain respect, support, care, and a family atmosphere for residents of the facility and fellow staff members. Also, professional boundaries need to be maintained. Ability to work as a team member is required.
Required: HS diploma or GED & prior experience with similar population; clean and valid NYS Driver’s License; must be willing to work holidays. EOE

Supervisor of Homeless Case Management: St. Catherine’s Center for Children is looking for a Supervisor of Case Management for a new permanent supported housing program. The Supervisor coordinates service provision through close collaboration and coordination with Capital Region Health Connections Care Coordinators. Directly supervises 3 FTE Case Managers/Housing Specialists and .5 FTE Supported Employment Specialist. This position provides services in Albany and Rennsselaer County. Responsibilities include: Provide and monitor outreach and engagement strategies for Case Managers using the evidence based practices Critical Time Intervention, Motivational Interviewing, Supported Employment, Housing First and Permanent Supportive Housing, ensuring best practices are implemented. Coordinate administrative issues in accordance with procedures developed by Capital Region Health Connections. Complete monthly progress reports. Receive referrals and assign individuals to Case Managers. Monitor screening and outreach to eligible individuals assigned to Case Managers maintaining an Outreach & Engagement Log to track activity referred by Capital Region Health Connections. Requirements include: Associates Degree, BSW or Bachelor’s Degree in a related field preferred; Experience working with chronically homeless individuals required; Must be comfortable working in the community to provide outreach and engagement using a client centered approach; Clean and valid NYS Driver’s License required; and Previous supervisory and/or management experience in a human service agency a plus.

Reflection for the 1st Sunday of Advent 2014

Countdown

What’s on your
clock?

Jesus said to his disciples: “Watch, therefore; you do not know when the Lord of the house is coming, whether in the evening, or at midnight, or at cockcrow, or in the morning. May he not come suddenly and find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to all: ‘Watch!’”

Many of us have heard of some of the most well know timekeepers. There is Big Ben in London and the ball that drops at Times Square on New Year’s Eve in New York City. Both are symbols of the passing of time. The United States Naval Observatory in Washington D.C. operates the master atomic clock ensemble which provides the time standard for the Department of Defense. FOCS 1, an atomic clock in Switzerland, started operating in 2004. It looses only one second every 30 million years. The Doomsday Clock at the University of Chicago is a symbolic clock face that represents a countdown to possible political related global catastrophe (a nuclear war or irreversible climate change). The closer the Science and Security Board of the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists set the Doomsday Clock to midnight, the closer the scientists believe the world is to global disaster. We are also in the midst of a whole group of sports seasons – football, basketball, and hockey. The clock at the top of our bulletin represents the last ten minutes of the game.

What’s missing? Of course, the score! Who’s winning? That is a question we tend to ask as time draws down. Who is winning, we even ask that in our lives as time draws down. Have I won, am I winning?

That should be a question Christians avoid. If we are focused on our successes and failures, the winning and losing of everyday life, we aren’t responding to Jesus’ call, we missed His request of us. If we aren’t much concerned with success, but are just allowing time to pass, biding our time in quiet, waiting for time to run out, we aren’t responding to Jesus’ call, we missed His request of us. Jesus tells us: He has placed His servants in charge, each with his own work, and orders the gatekeeper to be on the watch.

Advent is the season of the year that we should be taking account of our watchfulness, how we have responded to the Lord’s call. Are we at work for Him? We should use this time to redouble our efforts to be about our Master’s work, not our personal wins and losses.

All of the world’s timekeepers keep running, whether they are symbolic of the passing of time, predictive of the end of our times, or scientific instruments measuring its passage. We are always in the countdown period and our Lord’s return is near. What ends up on our clock will not be wins or losses, but how well we have responded to Him.

Now Thank We…

As I reflect this special day, I cannot help but give thanks to God for our beautiful family in the faith right here in Schenectady. I have been so blessed to minister to all of you and our wider community. I wish on this day that many more may find the Lord — come to know, love, and serve Him — among us so that they too would know the same joy that fills my heart.

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Now thank we all our God,
with heart and hands and voices,
who wondrous things has done,
in whom this world rejoices;
who from our mothers’ arms
has blessed us on our way
with countless gifts of love,
and still is ours today.

O may this bounteous God
through all our life be near us,
with ever joyful hearts
and blessed peace to cheer us;
and keep us still in grace,
and guide us when perplexed;
and free us from all ills,
in this world and the next.

All praise and thanks to God
the Father now be given;
the Son, and him who reigns
with them in highest heaven;
the one eternal God,
whom earth and heaven adore;
for thus it was, is now,
and shall be evermore.

Now Thank We All Our God
Text: Martin Rinkart; Trans. by Catherine Winkworth
Music: Johann Cruger; Harm. by Felix Mendelssohn

December Newsletter (delivered on Thanksgiving)

December, a journey through Advent and on to Christmas. Will you be going to church? If so, do you expect condemnation and judgment or joy? We should be expecting joy! This December is jam packed with events, from an ordination to our vigil dinner and children’s Christmas presentation, free lunch on Sunday, Christmas decorating and the joy of beginning the forty days of Christmas. Be an active part of the church this December, discover joy, and greet the Lord.

You may view and download a copy of our December 2014 Newsletter right here.

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2014 VA “Adopt -A-Vet” Holiday Program

remember-vetswithbow_225x225_thumbThe annual Holiday gift donation program for HUD-VASH & Veterans in need is now underway. Each year has been more successful; the first year the VA helped 8 Veteran families, last year, VA employees and many other community groups and agencies helped a total of 40 Veteran families in HUD-VASH and other programs. This year the VA has a list of over 40 Veterans in need who have requested items for their families this Holiday Season.

This donation program is part of Voluntary Services Holiday outreach for Veterans. A “needs” list of gifts that can be donated is being be maintained by Mike Fitzpatrick and Noney Grier. If you wish to fulfill a Family’s needs or a portion of it, or have any questions, please contact Mike Fitzpatrick at 518-626-6919 or Noney Grier at 518-626-5507.

All gifts must be brand new in original packaging and unwrapped. Gifts can be dropped off at the: Stratton VA Medical Center, 113 Holland Avenue, Room 304 or 305 “B” wing (Voluntary Services), Albany, NY 12208

In addition, rolls of wrapping paper will also be accepted and the VA will be scheduling volunteer “working parties” to help wrap the gifts at the VA prior to distribution out to Veteran families.

Thank you in advance for your continued support of our Veterans!

New job postings as of November 24, 2014

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The Bethlehem Family YMCA — Property Director

Under the general direction of the Executive Director, the Property Director manages the physical facilities of the branch which includes maintenance, cleaning and supervision of staff. The property director is also responsible for the administration of the dept. (budgeting, etc.).

Job Requirements: High School degree/GED is required. 3-5 years’ experience in cleaning and building trades. Prior supervisory experience. Excellent human relation skills, good organizational and communication skills. Knowledge of and commitment to the mission of the YMCA and its capacity to build strong kids, families and communities. The ability to articulate and model YMCA’s four core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibilities are essential.

Principal Responsibilities: To develop annual operating plan for the Maintenance Department. Monitor the achievement of these objectives, taking appropriate action to ensure they are met. Develop, monitor and administer annual budget (income and expense) for the Department. Ensure that the department maintains a positive fiscal position. Is liaison with outside contractors and vendors. Manage the staff and volunteers – recruit, hire, train, develop, supervise and evaluate. This includes following all policies, procedures and timeframes of the association. Assure the facility is cleaned on a daily basis to the standards and guidelines of the CDYMCA. Create and implement a preventative maintenance for appropriate building equipment and facilities. Oversee and perform, as necessary, all maintenance and repair activities. Oversee and coordinate snow removal and lawn grooming. Monitor and maintain aquatic facilities in accordance with applicable standards and regulations. Participate and support all CDY special events and fund raising activities, including Reach out for Youth, annual membership campaign, branch fundraisers and open houses. Serve as staff representative to the branch Program Committee, CDYMCA P-Group and other committees, as requested. Maintain cleanliness of facility as a member of Clean Team. Other duties, as directed.

Salary: – Low to mid 50s
Deadline: 12/5/2014

Please send all resumes and applications to: Derek S. Martin, District Executive Director Capital District YMCA Bethlehem Area Branch 900 Delaware Ave. Delmar, NY 12054 or by E-mail.

The Troy Family YMCA — Property Director

Under the general direction of the Executive Director, the Property Director manages the physical facilities of the branch which includes maintenance, cleaning and supervision of staff. The property director is also responsible for the administration of the dept. (budgeting, etc.).

Job Requirements: High School degree/GED is required. 3-5 years’ experience in cleaning and building trades. Prior supervisory experience. Excellent human relation skills, good organizational and communication skills. Knowledge of and commitment to the mission of the YMCA and its capacity to build strong kids, families and communities. The ability to articulate and model YMCA’s four core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibilities are essential.

Principal Responsibilities: To develop annual operating plan for the Maintenance Department. Monitor the achievement of these objectives, taking appropriate action to ensure they are met. Develop, monitor and administer annual budget (income and expense) for the Department. Ensure that the department maintains a positive fiscal position. Is liaison with outside contractors and vendors. Manage the staff and volunteers – recruit, hire, train, develop, supervise and evaluate. This includes following all policies, procedures and timeframes of the association. Assure the facility is cleaned on a daily basis to the standards and guidelines of the CDYMCA. Create and implement a preventative maintenance for appropriate building equipment and facilities. Oversee and perform, as necessary, all maintenance and repair activities. Oversee and coordinate snow removal and lawn grooming. Monitor and maintain aquatic facilities in accordance with applicable standards and regulations. Participate and support all CDY special events and fund raising activities, including Reach out for Youth, annual membership campaign, branch fundraisers and open houses. Serve as staff representative to the branch Program Committee, CDYMCA P-Group and other committees, as requested. Maintain cleanliness of facility as a member of Clean Team. Other duties, as directed.

Salary: – Low 40s
Deadline: 11/28/2014

Please send all resumes and applications to: Thomas Anadio, Executive Director, Capital District YMCA-Troy Family Branch 2500 21st Street, Troy, NY 12180 or by E-mail.

The Guilderland Area YMCA — Third Shift Custodian

Under the direction of the Property Director, the custodian is responsible for cleaning the facility according to the standards of the CDYMCA.

Job Requirements: One year prior experience in custodial work preferred. Excellent human relation skills and communication skills. At the Y, our cause is to strengthen community. To fulfill this promise, we require strong cause-driven leaders to effect lasting personal and social change regarding our organization’s three key areas: youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Our employees are all leaders committed to nurturing the potential of all, promoting healthy living, and fostering a sense of social responsibility.

Principal Responsibilities: Follow and complete daily housekeeping work schedule in all assigned areas, including climbing up and down ladders daily to maintain light fixtures, cleaning of windows (interior and 2nd floor exterior), cleaning of ventilation systems, vacuuming, moping, etc. Clean and sanitize assigned areas, according to established procedures and standards, using muriatic acid and sodium hypochloride on a daily basis. Assist with building repairs as requested. Loading and unloading of trucks, with lifting up to 50 lbs. Floor maintenance including operation of commercial buffers and scrubbers for extended periods of time. Assist in snow removal (running a snow blower and shoveling) or lawn grooming when necessary. Assist in set up and cleanup of rooms for special events, carrying and lifting tables and chairs. Maintain cleanliness of facility as a member of Clean Team. Other duties, as directed.

Scheduled Shift: Part Time; weekends, 10:30pm – 7:00am (8hrs plus fill in)
Pay Range: $9.35
Deadline: ASAP

Please forward all resumes and applications to: Jim Kisby, Property Director, Capital District YMCA – Guilderland Branch 250 Winding Brook Drive, Guilderland, NY 12084 or by E-mail.

The Schenectady County Library — Library Assistant (part-time)

Salary: The 2014 hourly rate for this position is $22.12 (Grade 13, Step 1)
Location: Central Library

Applicants who meet the following minimum qualifications may apply:

Minimum Qualifications: Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university with a bachelor’s degree and one (1) year of library experience which shall have involved assisting in the day-to-day operations of a library.

Application: Civil Service applications will be accepted from applicants who meet the minimum qualifications. CSEA bargaining unit members within the department will be given preference in appointment, based on seniority. Submit applications to the County Personnel Department, County Building 2nd Floor by 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 25, 2014.

Schenectady County Civil Service Exams

Forestry Crew Leader
Exam number: 63-834
Salary range: $35,788 – $42,601
Last date for filing: December 8, 2014
Exam date: January 24, 2015

Duties: This is a supervisory position involving responsibility for the efficient performance of assignments requiring a practical working knowledge of tree surgery practices. Provides instructions to city personnel indicating work to be done and work methods to be used. Checks work in process and upon completion. Also schedules and checks the work of outside vendors for tree removal. The work is performed under the supervision of the Commissioner of General Services or his/her designee. Supervision is exercised over all tree work and scheduling of tree work by both city personnel and outside contractors. The incumbent oversees park labor performing specific tasks. Does related work as required.

Caseworker
Exam number: 300-81
Salary range: $46,137 – $54,547
Last date for filing: December 8, 2014
Exam date: January 24, 2015

Duties: This position involves responsibility for assessing the social service needs of individuals and families within the community. The incumbent renders these services to families and individuals who are experiencing emotional, social, environmental and economic problems. Incumbents receive ongoing in-service training in social casework practices and procedures including training in applicable laws and regulations. General supervision is received from a senior caseworker or other supervisory personnel. General supervision may be exercised over the work of caseworker trainees. The incumbent does related work as required.

Caseworker (Spanish Speaking)
Exam number: 300-82
Salary range: $46,137 – $54,547
Last date for filing: December 8, 2014
Exam date: January 24, 2015

Duties: This position involves responsibility for assessing the social service needs of individuals and families within the community. The incumbent renders these services to families and individuals who are experiencing emotional, social, environmental and economic problems. Incumbents receive ongoing in-service training in social casework practices and procedures including training in applicable laws and regulations. General supervision is received from a senior caseworker or other supervisory personnel. General supervision may be exercised over the work of caseworker trainees. The incumbent does related work as required.

If you have questions regarding these examinations call (518) 388-4233 or write to Schenectady County Civil Service Commission, 620 State Street, Schenectady, NY 12305.

Hope House, Inc. – Program Manager

Hope House, Inc., a multi-faceted treatment program for chemically dependent individuals, is currently seeking a Program Manager for our Outpatient Clinic. This position is located in Albany, NY.

Primary responsibilities include responding to the needs of the clients by developing activities/treatment services to enhance the clients’ abilities to address their substance abuse issues; supervision of staff and budgets; responsible for clinical treatment and decisions as team leader including keeping appropriate documentation and adherence to 822 regulations; must maintain a positive working relationship with regulatory agencies, referral sources and community based providers.

CASAC and/or QHP/license required and experience working with chemically dependent individuals. Prior supervisory/managerial experience, as well experience working in an outpatient clinic also required.

Please send your resume by E-mail.

Trinity Nursery and Day Care Center – NYS Certified Pre-K Teacher

Trinity Nursery and Day Care Center is seeking a NYS Certified Pre-K Teacher for our UPK classroom in Albany, NY. Trinity Nursery and Day Care Center offers a competitive salary and benefit package.

Please call Kathleen at (518) 436-4514 or E-mail your resume.

Rensselaer County Regional Chamber of Commerce — Membership Manager

The Rensselaer County Regional Chamber of Commerce, “One of the Top 3 Chambers in the Nation,” is seeking a Membership Manager to contribute to the chamber’s continued success.

To Apply for This Job, please send your salary requirements, cover letter and resume to Cindy Lovely, Executive Assistant at the Rensselaer County Regional Chamber of Commerce by E-mail.

Our ideal candidate is a creative and enthusiastic self-starter with great organizational and multi-tasking skills. Through the development of sales leads, cold calls and client visits, this key position will sell and promote chamber membership benefits to a variety of area businesses and organizations.

This opportunity provides a competitive compensation package including base salary plus commission and 100% paid individual health insurance benefits.

Albany County Department of Civil Service — Exam Announcements

Please be aware that new exam announcements have been posted on the Albany County Department of Civil Service website.

Reflection for the Solemnity of Christ the King 2014

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The best life
can be.

I will rescue them from every place where they were scattered when it was cloudy and dark. I myself will pasture my sheep; I myself will give them rest, says the Lord GOD. The lost I will seek out, the strayed I will bring back, the injured I will bind up, the sick I will heal

Why did Jesus come to us? Why would the eternal Son of the Father give up the glory of heaven, His absolute power and Kingship to walk among us as a man, subject to all the temptations, pains, suffering, and sorrows we so often face as human beings?

Love! God’s answer to us is always love. He came so we would know exactly how much He, as God, loves us. He came to give us the promise only love could give: I love you so much that I am willing to give it all up. I am willing to empty Myself of everything and lay My life on the line, so you could have the promise of love – a life that will never end, in perfect joy and peace, with me in heaven. If I do not give up my life for you, you could never enter into heaven. Now you can, because I loved you enough to do all that for you.

This presents us with a challenge. How can we possibly respond to this enormous love? Our response is contained in the picture at the top of our bulletin: by making the rest of our life the best of our life. What does it mean to have the best life? Is it gathering goods, focusing on our personal successes, being satisfied in what we have and our pleasures? No, not at all! Making the rest of our life the best of our life means being changed, that we allow ourselves to be changed by the love of God and to be about the business of love.

To be engaged in the business of love starts with making love known. Jesus points out many ways we can do this: ‘I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me.’

Of course, those are means – but what’s the point? These actions only make sense, make a point, if they are the means by which we bring knowledge of Jesus’ love to others and help them enter His love. We use human means to make Jesus known and as an invitation. This includes our charity, words and the way we act toward others. Making Jesus known and inviting others into His love is the point, the basis, of every Christian’s life. It is the way we make the rest of our life the best of our life. It is the way we carry out His work and help people into the Kingdom. To make the rest of our life the best of our life let’s set to work in helping people know how good and loving God is. The world is missing His love. Let us help them partake of His love.