Imagine if you could put three words down on a piece of paper. Next imagine that they related to one another in a mathematical sort of way. Now read over the 2nd reading from this past weekend's Mass order of readings and see if you can pull out three key words(Ephesians 5:15-20):

"Be careful then how you live, not as unwise people but as wise, ¹⁶making the most of the time, because the days are evil. ¹⁷So do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. ¹⁸Do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but be filled with the Spirit, ¹⁹as you sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, singing and making melody to the Lord in your hearts, ²⁰giving thanks to God the Father at all times and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."

St. Paul was giving instructions to the early and primitive church in Ephesus. In my weekly audio piece, I provided what I think are the three words that sum up St. Paul's message: morality, ministry and measurement.

Each of us has some sense of morality (doing the right thing) and even ministry (serving in the right way). But how about measurement? What if you could put a grade on your faith- would you be on the honor roll or the Principal's list? From a faith perspective, I know that I've not always done my homework and occasionally find myself cramming for a test. As a way to counter this, I write in my journal each morning and make sure to schedule in moments for prayer. "Attending class" for my family includes Sunday worship and keeps us reminded of the gameplan within our tradition of faith.

I think that people of faith need to step back from time to time and take stock of their faith development. How am I doing? Am I stronger today than a year ago at this time? What did God teach me in the past week? These questions and many more are vital to a joyful and productive life.

*Photo by Wicks