I click on my right turn signal as my phone map instructs me to turn right at the next street. I feel a bit turned around, but surely the directions must be correct. Driving down the side street, I scan the surroundings for the next turn that has to be around somewhere. Pulling off to the side, I zoom into the map on my screen to see that the road I’m looking for doesn’t even connect to the one I’m on. And here I sit, irritated with a piece of technology in which I’ve so easily placed my trust.
How quick I am to not give a second thought to trusting gadgets and yet often it is with skepticism that I approach the harkening of the Holy Spirit. For those in the city of Nineveh, it took only one day to hear the words of Jonah, trust he spoke the truth, and stop their evil ways. As the mouthpiece of God, Jonah relayed the destruction God would impose on their city within forty days. (See Jonah 3:1-10.) Then without a second thought, they stopped, dropped what they were doing, and repented.
Here we are living thousands of years after this and we even have Jesus, sent by God to redeem us, offering us daily grace through the Sacraments. The Church He established is full of signs all calling us back to repentance and unity. We have access to the Holy Spirit Who gives us the gift of discernment so our eyes can be open to the calling to holiness in the everyday.
Today as we delve into the Season of Lent, open your eyes and ears to Jesus calling you back to Himself. Remember to boldly approach the throne of mercy in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Rest in gratitude for the life-giving Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of our Savior received into our very bodies.
You have forty whole days. The fast has been declared, and the signs are there. Take advantage of these days and let them transform you.
Pray this simple prayer to the Holy Spirit and invite Him into your heart today.
Sarah Ortiz is a Catholic convert, wife, and mother to four boys while living in a 200 year old farmhouse. When not folding laundry, she can be found reading, experimenting in the kitchen, or snagging amazing antique furniture deals. You can find out more about her here.
Walk With Us this Advent
Get Your Prayerful Planner
