As I mentioned in my Journal Monday, I’m reading The Joy of the Gospel: Evangelii Gaudium  by Pope Francis and I’m really enjoying it. I am actually surprised with how much I like it. I think a lot of people would really like it too, even non Catholics. In fact, I bet some non Catholics might even enjoy what he has to say even more than some Catholics. It’s definitely making me reexamine how I live out – or don’t – the true Gospel. So if you’ve been wondering about it, go ahead and give it a try !

Here are a few of my favorite quotes so far, mostly from the first chapter: 

“Whenever our interior life becomes caught up in its own interests and concerns, there is no longer room for others, no place for the poor. God’s voice is no longer heard; the quiet joy of his love is no longer felt, and the desire to do good fades. This is a very real danger for believers too.”

“Let me say this once more: God never tires of forgiving us; we are the ones who tire of seeking his mercy.”

“Joy adapts and changes, but it always endures, even as a flicker of light born of our personal certainty that, when everything is said and done, we are infinitely loved.”

“Life grows by being given away, and it weakens in isolation and comfort. Indeed, those who enjoy life most are those who leave security on the shore and become excited by the mission of communicating life to others.”

“God asks everything of us, yet at the same time he offers everything to us.”

His exhortation is overflowing with joy and enthusiasm for the Gospel. You really should read it!

Have a Joy-Filled Sunday!

(Update: After I posted this and have already purchased the book, I realized you can also read it and download it on the Vatican website for Free! – http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/francesco/apost_exhortations/documents/papa-francesco_esortazione-ap_20131124_evangelii-gaudium_en.html. So now you have no excuses, unless you read this post before I updated it.)

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