We walked in silence except for the rustling of heavy skirts. The chapel lights were dim with candles adding extra soft light. We genuflected and entered the pews; prayer books were given to us and directions were whispered. It was time for night prayer at the Motherhouse for the Nashville Dominicans.
We stood and sat and stood and bowed. We, a group of college women attending a retreat led by the sisters, tried our best to follow along, but finally I gave up trying and just took it in. It was beautiful, a glimpse of Heaven.
The Sisters chanted the Canticle of Simeon from today’s Gospel, just as they do every night in preparation for their sleep and their death.
“Lord, now let your servant go in peace; your word has been fulfilled: my own eyes have seen the salvation which you prepared in the sight of every people, a light to reveal you to the nations and the glory of your people Israel” (Luke 2:29-32).
My best friend stood next to me as we heard those words and felt that peace. She knew that she would enter religious life with that community, and I stood beside her and knew I would not. The sisters meant one thing when they prayed Simeon’s words, but in that moment those prayers meant something very different to my friend and me. The Lord had revealed something to us both and the path for our salvation was clear. His Word has been fulfilled again, but this time for two college seniors seeking our vocations.
Listen for what He's trying to reveal to you today. Sometimes you hear it in Scripture, other times through a friend. Are you listening?
Are you listening? // @bonnieengstromClick to tweet
Learn more about how to pray the Liturgy of the Hours.
Bonnie Engstrom is a writer, baker, speaker, and homemaker. She lives with her husband and eight children in Illinois. Bonnie is the author of 61 Minutes to a Miracle which tells the story of her son’s miracle that was approved by Pope Francis for the beatification of Venerable Fulton Sheen. She is the author of Blessed Conversations Mystery: Believe. Find out more about her here.
Be a Woman of the Word
