Before the reading of the Gospel at each Mass, we make a small sign of the cross on our forehead, our lips, and our heart. This gesture is a visible reminder that we want the Word of God to be in our minds, on our lips, and in our hearts. Keeping God’s word close to us in this way is essential to living our faith in the world. As it says in Psalms, “Your word is a lamp to my feet, a light to my path.” The scriptures can guide us if we allow them to do so.
Do you have a favorite bible verse? A scripture passage that you can call to mind when you need it?
If not, let me share with you my favorite passage in the scriptures. It comes from St. Paul’s letter to the Philippians, chapter 4. When I was in high school, I got into the habit of reading this chapter before my football games. It became part of my pre-game routine primarily because of verse 13, a passage you’ve surely heard before. In the translation of the Bible I had in those days, it read, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” I still find calling that verse to mind is helpful when I’m faced with a difficult task or situation. It gives me courage when I can’t find it within myself.
Over the years, though, I’ve realized that other verses in Philippians 4 have also sort of stuck with me.
Paul writes, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice!” (v.2) This is a great reminder that, no matter the circumstances, those of us who are followers of Christ have reason to be joyful: God has brought us into his friendship and defeated death itself, so we can live with him forever in heaven. It’s not rejoice in the Lord when you feel like it, but rejoice in the Lord always. This is a great verse to remind ourselves of in times where we’re stressed, or sick, or when it just feels like things aren’t that great. Even then, we still have reason to rejoice.
Finally, Philippians 4:8 is a verse that’s been influential to me, particularly as a parent. It’s a verse I’ve written about before when it comes to helping our children grow in the faith. It reads, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Essentially, Paul is reminding us that we should fill our minds and hearts with that which is true, honorable, just, pure, and lovely. Put aside pastimes, entertainment, even conversations which “drag us down”, so to speak, into negativity or even sinfulness, and choose to surround yourself with the good. Having a Bible verse or two in your mind, in your heart, and on your lips is a good way of doing just that.