Happiness in This Life – Your Weekly Reflection from CMMB

A Catholic Meditation on the Gospel

The apostle Peter advised the early Christians, “Be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead.” Approximately 2,000 years later, we’re celebrating International Day of Happiness (March 20th)—with you, and everyone in our global family of faith. Since 2013, the United Nations has celebrated International Day of Happiness as a way to recognize the importance of happiness in the lives of people around the world.

“Let all that you do be done in love.” —1 Corinthians 16:14

The traditions of our faith call us to work toward the goals of ending poverty for women and children by supporting their health, well being, and happiness. In his book, Happiness in this Life, Pope Francis highlights the importance of joy in our lives as a spiritual quest.

“People who nourish kindness in their heart find that such kindness leads to a peaceful conscience and to profound joy even in the midst of difficulties and misunderstandings. Happiness can’t be bought. And whenever you try to buy happiness, you soon realize that it has vanished. The happiness you can buy does not last. Only the happiness of love lasts! The path of love is simple: Love God and love your neighbor, love your brother or sister, love whoever is near you and whoever needs love or needs anything else. “But, Father, how do I know that I love God?” It’s easy. If you love your neighbor, if you do not have hatred in your heart, you love God. That is the ultimate test.”

— Pope Francis, Happiness in this Life

As we reflect on the fifth Sunday of Lent, let’s make a commitment to anticipate the coming joy of Easter each day, through loving words and deeds. In this way, we can be truly happy.

Happiness in this Life is published by The Random House Publishing Group, c. 2017.

Stories of Children Living in Extreme Poverty

The transition from breast milk to solid food has been hard on two-year-old Carline. Her family eats one small meal each day and the only water available is contaminated. Carline’s older brother already suffers from a chronic intestinal infection. You can ensure health for this at-risk toddler with safe water and food.

Read Carline’s Story BY CLICKING HERE

Joshua may never get an education without help from an Angel. His brother has a heart condition and doctor bills have pushed this poor family further into poverty. His mother can barely afford food. School fees are out of reach. You can send Joshua to school, giving him a chance for a better life.

Read Joshua’s Story BY CLICKING HERE

Mercy is five and was recently diagnosed with acute malnutrition. If untreated, the effects on her health can be devastating and irreversible. Her mother is heartbroken and hopeless. You can be the Angel this family desperately needs. Safe water and food will change Mercy’s life.

Help Mercy in Kenya