From the Parish Priest – Fr. Romey Rosco
As a young adult, you may wonder if God really knows what you are going through, whether it be difficult relationships (“My dad doesn’t understand!” “My mom is overbearing!”), or fear of an “unknown” future (all future is unknown, except for the assurance that God gives us), or determining the details of moving forward to create a life and find the career that you want.
In the Holy Bible, God gives us the basic advice we need. First of all, “Remember your Creator in the days of your youth” (Eccl. 12:11). Never be too busy to remember God. And as you must prepare academically, so must you continue to prepare for life spiritually. He challenges you to keep Him in your daily routine through prayer, bible reading, prescribed fasting and good works, wherever you are! Remember what the Lord and His Church have taught you concerning these things.
“Do not let anyone look down on you because you are young, but be an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity” (I Tim. 4:12). God knows that you will be criticized for it, but He believes in you and will inspire you to endure. Practice being and doing what is right, and let others learn from your example.
You cannot do what is right if you do not reject what is wrong. The Apostle Paul writes to Timothy “Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace…” (II Tim. 2:22). You will be surrounded by evil influences, and it’s not hard to get even innocently involved. But you must disentangle yourself or it will become a destructive lifestyle. Pursue those things that make your life positive and fulfilling and a benefit to others.
God does understand you! He cares about you! And He wants you to understand Him. He wants you to be a mature and committed adult believer. So, as you prepare for your future, whether you are living at home or away from home, make the effort: Remember, Prepare, Practice and Pursue! …….It will give YOU a far greater understanding! And you will believe!
From The Weekly Bulletin, Vol. XL No. 28, 14 July 2013
Sts. Peter & Paul Romanian Orthodox Church, Dearborn Heights MI
