In Sunday's Gospel, Luke's reading proclaimed, "Then from the cloud came a voice that said,
'This is my chosen Son; listen to him.'”
Have you ever had an opportunity in your life that you thought you could really excel toward and succeed in? An opportunity such as a job or a position on a team. Maybe perhaps it was not so much an “interview” but a first date. Like your mom always told you to, you prayed and prayed for the opportunity because that’s what you wanted. Whether you’re a “911 Christian” that prays when it’s clearly an emergency, and God must be there to rescue you, or you’re the “give and take” kind that prays, “Dear Lord, please please please if you let this job interview go well, I promise to smile at the grumpy old lady at the bank every Thursday.” But maybe, sometimes unknowingly, what we want just isn’t what we need in our lives.
Sure, it’s frustrating at first. In the beginning, when that doors slams in our face, our pride and our confidence is bruised. First, we begin to blame those who turn us a down. Then, subconsciously, our self-esteem plummets to the bottom of our stomachs, along with our hearts, ultimately leaving us with heartache and despair. At this moment, if you’re like me you think to yourself, “What could I have done differently? What did they not like about me?”
It’s easy to think these unwanted thoughts. I mean, we’re only human, and the Evil One is a strong persuader. But, if we take some time to reflect on the situation at hand we can stray from dwelling on the question, “God, why not me?”, but rather focus on the question, “God, what is your will for me?” By asking this question, you give yourself time and awareness to reflect on what it is that God is trying to tell you:
“If a door closes, quit banging on it. Whatever was behind it was not meant for you. Consider that perhaps the door was closed because you’re worth so much more than what was on the other side.”
Like many people, I know what I want in life, and I’m going to do whatever it takes until I get it. But sometimes, life just isn’t that easy. Sometimes, the thing we want is on the other side of a door that just won’t give way. We bang and pry until our hands hurt, but there’s nothing else we can do but sit back down and wait for the next door to open.
Whatever you do in life, always have patience.
I know, easier said than done, right? But really, good things come to those who wait for what belongs to them. A job, a promotion, a friend, a spouse: anything can be pursued, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it is right for you. When something new in your life doesn’t give you that “feeling”, chances are it’s not right for you at the moment. Maybe in a couple years or so, but right now, there’s something else planned for you. Pray for the gift of patience to wait for that plan to present itself.
Wherever you are in life, be all there.
At times, the anxiety of the future can be a hard cross to carry. Whether you’re preparing for a business proposal or meeting someone new in a couple of weeks, that wait can be very troubling on the mind, body and soul. Instead of spending your time pulling your hair out, ask God for the grace to overcome that anxiety and to live in the moment.
Trust in God and His will.
There’s a path for each and every one of us in this life. He has great things planned for those who follow His will. Whether you’re thinking about changing your major, contemplating quitting your job, or trying to find a new job, give Him your hand and trust in Him, and He will show you the way. “Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” (John 13:7)
No matter what, be grateful.
If the door opens, praise Him. If the door does not open, praise Him. Not matter the outcome, no matter the finish, praise Him in all things good and bad. This may seem hard to understand, but it is important that you remain grateful for all opportunities granted to you, even if the turnout what a complete letdown.
“This is my chosen Son; listen to him.” When He says, “No,” listen. When He says, “Yes,” listen. When He says, “Be still,” listen. How blessed are we that we have a Father who loves us so much that he sent his Only Begotten Son.
