HAVING consulted the College of Consultors, His Grace Most Reverend…
Stay alert always and lead a life worthy of God, says KK prelate
It is another new year as Spring returns, may the Lord fill you with His abundant grace.
Economists around the globe are projecting an economy downturn in 2017. In recent years, the Malaysian government has increased its tax loadings. In addition, the impact of the global economy and a variety of other factors leading to inflation, people are faced with various difficulties and pressure in life.
“Gong Xi Fa Cai” is the usual greeting we share when we encounter each other during Chinese New Year, with the hope that we would gain a fortune in the new year. Since last year, many businessmen and people of all professions are stricken by the economy downturn. With that, for one who wishes to gain a fortune in the new year, one will need to be conscientious and practical in their financial planning.
As a Chinese saying goes: “Happy are those who find contentment in poverty.” This saying conforms to the Beatitudes that Jesus has taught us, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.” It means that we are to depend whole-heartedly on God, lead a life of simplicity and follow the path of God. The Chinese have understood this way of life as early as thousands of years ago.
Regardless of the effects of the economic downturn, life still goes on. Let us implore for the wisdom of God to be good stewards of money, leaving behind a spendthrift life, to help us face the days ahead with courage.
There are two kinds of wealth: one is the earthly wealth, while the other is the wealth in heaven. Jesus has said to us: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and decay destroy, and thieves break in and steal. But store up treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor decay destroys, nor thieves break in and steal” (Matthew 6: 19-20). Therefore, brothers and sisters, let us build up our treasures in heaven.
As the saying goes: “Happy are those who find contentment.” Do not feel depressed because we are earning less this year, or that we have lost a great deal in investment. The wealth on earth is transitory. This wealth does not guarantee true peace and joy. Only when we are content with what we possess, knowing that God is always with us, will we find true peace and joy. Especially in this time of difficulties, let us put our trust wholly in Him.
In this year of the Rooster, I pray that we all be showered with peace, health and joy, and that we may grow strong in the virtues of faith, hope and love. May the crow of the rooster remind us to stay alert always and lead a life worthy of the Almighty God.