January 7 2019 Monday after Epiphany-C

1 John 3:22—4:6

Psalm 2

Matthew 4:12-17, 23-25

And his commandment is this: we should believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and love one another… 1 John 3:23

“Repent, for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand.”  Mt. 4:17

Lord, this time of year many people “repent” of their inactive lifestyles and join a gym, walk, diet or ride a bike to lose weight and get in shape.  All good things but sadly this change of lifestyle may only stick with some and not all who starts it continues.  The good news in our scripture today is aimed at those who want to activate their spiritual lifestyle.  John gives us two strong points to do just that:  believe in you and love one another.  Belief in you is a radical commitment to your sovereignty over each of us.  We give ourselves to you completely and fully accept your will in every part of our lives.  This leads us to a response of love of our brothers and sisters.  Every decision we make; every trial we face; every joy and pain that comes to us is experienced in light of our trust in you.  Jesus, I want you to be the Lord of my life.  I want to live in your kingdom and am willing to accept whatever you see must be changed in me.  But I desperately need your grace to do it.  Amen.