Joan Chittister wrote, in Fire In These Ashes, that the reason for entering religious life is to "seek God and God alone" and the importance of finding God where God is, not where we expect to find God. When I read those words in 2008 in the months before making my Solemn Profession of Vows, I thought I understood the concept of seeking God where God is - in creation, in my animal companions, in the poor and in the homeless - but after rereading those words again this week, I realize that my understanding was limited. That I still sought God where I expected God to be. I didn't seek God in my family, friends, coworkers or customers at the restaurant or anyone else I happened to pass by in a store or on the street. I certainly never expected to find God or even consider looking for God in those people who tested my patience - and I failed that test so often. I never thought of seeking God in those moments when I questioned the validity of my calling, when ego and pride got the best of me, when I questioned relationships and my own self worth and value. Yet, I know now God was there in the midst of all of it, is here and will be here. I just didn't understand until now.
Holy Mary, Mother of Creation, bless us
that we may experience God as Love
in praise of all creatures,
in love of all of creation. Amen.
Father Michael Adams - www.livingrosaries.org
Peace and Blessings!
Sister Pat, FMT
