“Jesus summoned the Twelve and gave them power and authority” (Lk 9:1).
Jesus summons us as he did the Twelve and empowers us for ministry in his name. The expression of our service is unique to each of us. Many resist entering into a deeper commitment to their faith because they are anxious or afraid that God may call us to something that we would never want to do and that would make us miserable. Initially, there may be some trepidation if we are clear of the direction God wants us to move in, but that comes more from our hesitancy to change and move out from our comfort zone. Ultimately, God wants for us what we want for ourselves; to live a life of joy, meaning and fulfillment.
God knows clearly what will fulfill us, give us meaning, and bring us joy. The challenge for us is to come to know this for ourselves as well. The work of discipleship begins by accepting the invitation of God to walk with him and trusting that he knows what he is doing! As we journey along the path of discipleship, no matter what our age, we are never too young or old to begin or recommit to the journey. One good practice is to bring our dreams and desires to God in prayer and to imagine ourselves embracing what we desire. When I first joined the Franciscans to study for the priesthood in the early 90’s, I would imagine from time to time my ordination day. A puzzling result consistently arose. I did not imagine myself as feeling any excitement or joy. A year and a half into formation, I decided to take a leave of absence, and three years after I left, I realized why. I met JoAnn. Whenever I envisioned our marriage ceremony I felt, and as I write now, still feel the excitement and joy of our wedding day when we made a commitment to each other to share our journey together!
God has a plan for us, he knows what will fulfill us. We come to align ourselves with his will as we ponder our dreams and desires, and as we investigate, research, explore potential outcomes, and continue to pray with God and discern each step. He will continue to lead us and give us what we need to serve him. There will be fits and starts, mis-steps and gliding, doubts as well as confirmations, desolations and consolations. The key is to remain faithful, to continue to trust in Jesus who called us. He will continue to accompany us along the way, he will give us the resources and strength we need, and he will give us the power to transform our and other’s lives. We are never alone.
Photo credit: Jack McKee
Link for today’s Mass reading:
Spiritual Stepping Stones 