Posted by The WORD in other words (2018) by Fr Aris Martin SVD – USA
Thursday 1st Week of Advent
Today I am celebrating my 10 years of priestly ordination. The readings of today parallel the feeling of turning 10, without much attribute to myself but almost exclusively to God. To God be the glory!
The first reading from Isaiah is a song by the people of God in response to what God has done to them. It speaks of their trust in God who gave them strength and peace. Isaiah would say, “A nation of firm purpose you keep in peace; in peace, for its trust in you.”
The Gospel tells us that in order for a word not to be mere noise, it must lead to the heart of God, synchronizing with God’s will. The words of Jesus himself puts its clearly: “Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock.”
Once St. Arnold Janssen said: “Happiness is doing the will of God.” It is asking everyday, “Lord, what is it that you want me to say, do or think?” It is about discerning God’s will moment-to-moment. In the end what will make us strong and at peace will no longer be “the doing” but the relationship that grows deeper and deeper everytime we seek God’s will.
Looking back over the past 10 years, I have encountered rain, floods, and winds that have buffeted my vocation. I may not know what lies ahead, but what I do know is that as long as I stand on the side of God, things will be okay. The smile we put on the face of God every time we do His will is our strength and joy as well.
2 comments