Take courage, sister. There is nothing to fear.
I can easily think of experiences in my life in which I stood on the brink of “the next step” in life. Graduating from high school and deciding where to go for college. Graduating from college and going on to serve in ministry. Leaving ministry to attend law school. Graduating from law school to pursue all things health and fitness. Getting married. Moving to a different state. The list goes on.
There is always a “next step” as we live each day, isn’t there? And most often, it seems, the next step requires courage—a movement of the heart towards God. The "next step" almost always requires us to actively rebuke fear and live in deep faith.
In today’s Gospel (Luke 9:18-22), we find Jesus praying in solitude while the disciples were with Him. Even Jesus took time away from the tasks and events of the day-to-day to intentionally step into the presence of Our Father. It’s humbling to realize, isn’t it? That Jesus Himself set time aside to meet His Father in conversation in order to go forth with “the next step.”
Today's readings remind me of a few things in particular:
1) If Jesus prayed, I must too. Not only to know the Heart of the Father and His love for me, but also to receive the grace I need to be courageous always.
2) I have nothing to fear as I take each new step He calls me to. Grace is always here to embrace.
3) Even when I face suffering or challenges and obstacles in this life, I can rest assured that God wastes nothing. Each "next step" serves a purpose for my greater good and His greater glory.
Sister, take courage. Set time aside today to enter into the presence of our Heavenly Father. Ask Him with bold faith to pour His Spirit upon you so that you may take the next step—whatever it may be—with confidence knowing that His Spirit is your guide!
LOVING GOD, LOVING OTHERS
A NEW WORKSHOP
COME BACK TO FIRST LOVE
