The renowned Catholic writer, Henry Nouwen once wrote, “Living a spiritually mature life requires listening to God’s voice within and among us. To discern means first of all to listen to God, pay attention to God’s active presence, and to obey God’s prompting, direction, leadings and guidance. Discernment of spirits is a lifelong task. I can see no other way for discernment than to be committed to a life of unceasing prayer and contemplation, a life of deep communion with God.”
These words challenge me. He’s right, of course. But I am challenged by them nonetheless. It’s too easy for me to explain what someone else should be doing with their life. How they should pray; how they should be an example; how and why they should come to church. But what Nouwen is reminding me is that first I need to have my own spiritual act in order. I need to pray. I need to come to mass. I need to listen to God and to know what God wants for me. (That is what discernment is.)
In today’s Gospel, we hear John the Baptist say, “Behold the Lamb of God!” John obeyed God’s prompting, direction, leadings and guidance. I pray that I will seek to know God’s active presence in my own life so that I may properly share that with all I encounter.
There are so many misconceptions out there, and I really believe that people are hesitant to take the first step only because of all that they (incorrectly) think they will have to do.
Today’s Responsorial Psalm is a beautiful reminder of how simple it really is. “Here am I, Lord; I come to do your will. Sacrifice or offering you wished not, but ears open to obedience you gave me.” [PS 40:6] All the “sacrifices” and “burnt offerings” I think I have to do in order to gain God’s acceptance are not needed. All I need to do is to listen to the Word of God found in the Gospel and follow the teachings of Jesus. (That is what discernment is.)
How many people would come forward to become closer to Jesus if they knew that it was not as hard as they were making it out to be? But if I don’t make it a priority to share that Good News, the world may never know.
Every Day.