“For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”// Luke 14:11
The church was nearly silent, other than the soft rustling of their long habits as they knelt. Identical white veils swayed delicately down their backs. Dark-colored rosary beads hung at their sides. I edged closer to them. They were beautiful. A row of serene faces, some etched with the loveliest laugh lines, others with penetrating eyes that gazed lovingly at the large Crucifix above the altar. Peace emanated from each of them.
These Sisters gave their entire lives to the Lord by answering the call to a life of prayer and humble service, a life without prestige in the worldly sense. Each agreed with joy to take the lowest place. They took vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience. On their wedding day, they danced with the Bridegroom. They were women with distinct personalities and varying gifts, sharing a charism of love. Women, who through their glorious witness, extend an invitation to each of us to live our blessed vocations for the Lord. To find peace wherever Christ calls us.
In the quiet moments of life, unrecognized by the world, that is where we find His boundless love. That is where peace is ever-present. That is where we become who we are. I saw it within the Sisters. The fullness of a life poured out for the love of Christ and neighbor. Awaiting the day when His Holy Face smiles upon us.
His wounded hand reaches out. His voice calls us to the table of the King.