THE DOTS

Do you or have you ever "wondered" what God wants of you? Ever have someone say something to you that was already on your mind? Ever challenged connecting the dots? I have. Some previous intentions got waylayed the past couple of years because of surgeries...then today, while at a funeral visitation a person there told me she/they were waiting for me to come and volunteer yet! (Is that a hint from God?) 

Even my speaking engagements, that I had done several years ago,  as well as another venture, had taken a lull but this week I was asked to give a presentation in Lakewood this summer! 

Also, weeks ago the deacon at church asked if I would consider being spiritual director for the womens' CEW (Christian Experience Weekend) in November!  I had expressed my availability many years ago to no avail. 

Now, months ago I began back lectoring and being a Eucharistic minister.  I had had a little chat with God after being told that "we are Jesus to others." I took it to heart and gave up some resentments and it just feels like God was waiting for me to let go of those things.  My heart says God now is showing me the way, putting opportunities in front of me for my consideration. 

There were times in my life that all I saw were isolated incidents until a retreat master pointed out a bigger picture. I began to see a bigger picture with my life. Yes, there has been a lull in several details in my life but then again I hear words of a friend telling me, "God has you right where He wants you!" 

So, do you ever wonder about your life? Maybe those possibilities ahead can be a bit unnerving with no specific answers but where is faith? Maybe too, God has you right where He wants you, also! Perhaps there are dots that can be connected.  Look at all the dots and try to see a bigger picture!  

Courtesy of Pixabay

Viewpoints

During my little jaunt to Ohio a few weeks ago I was visiting with a relative, who now claims to be atheist.  He knew exactly the day and situation that he asked himself, "why am I doing this (Catholic ministries, church etc.)."  He explained it all in great detail, to him, very logically. My sister was suprised at how open my relative was but I believe it was my openness and love for him.

Of course, many things have occurred in this imperfect church and many have turned their backs on it; sometimes others have turned their backs on any church, not just Catholic. I have questioned why they "put up" with their challenges.  I certainly can't blame them when they choose alternate options. 

However, that also brings me to the word, "love", especially "...and the greatest of these is love." Other words get mixed into the equation such as anger, resentments, forgiveness, tolerance and patience but it seems to me that with love, we can come to the other things eventually.  

Many years ago a Lutheran acquaintance told me to "simply love" a relative whom I was concerned about.  It worked.  No words, no proselitizing, harping...nothing but "love him." My relative was certainly around a lot of love with us. 

I could have tried taking him down a road of logic, attempting to bring him to an obvious point of recognizing God but it must come from his own insides.  It is so challenging to use no words, only actions of love...listening, no arguments or rebuttals...a real attempt to see the other's viewpoint. 

So often we may attempt to argue and try  to get our point of view across.  I am guilty and have often been at fault in this realm. However, I also have been more apt to change my viewpoint after feeling heard rather than shamed.  Attitudes change in many ways, sometimes quickly, sometimes slowly.  Love gets us much further than rancor!