We are a week into 2022 and while the new year means a new start and therefore a new reason to be hopeful, we know that there is still so much uncertainty and anxiety. Hence as we start this new year it would be very nice to ask ourselves the question asked of the two disciples (John 1:38): “What are you looking for?”

Since each of us has different situations, different stories, different backgrounds, three guidelines on “what we are looking for”:

1. Whatever we are looking for, may it bring us closer to God. We are reminded that God is always with us but he respects our free will. Jesus once told his disciples that in this life, we cannot serve two masters. We will love one and despise the other. One cannot serve God and money. Whatever we are looking for in life, may we come closer to God.
   
2. Whatever we are looking for, may we bless other people’s lives. When we human beings decide on matters, we often ask ourselves, “What is it in for me?” Let us guard ourselves from being selfish and self-centered. Instead let us never forget the words of Christ, “I came to serve and not be served.”
   
3. Whatever we are looking for in life, may it make us a better person. Nowadays, the world seems to have lost its moral compass. Just look at how the world leaders act in public. What is wrong is proclaimed right. What is right is made wrong. We do not know the difference anymore. In pursuit of what we are looking for, may we never forget the time-tested moral values: honesty, integrity, generosity, kindness, and forgiveness.

May we know that life is a journey and we are looking for something. Hopefully, whatever we find, may it bring us closer to God, bless other people’s lives and make us a better person.