In today’s first reading (DT 4:1, 5-9), Moses is speaking with the people about the importance of God’s statutes and decrees. At the end of this selection of verses he changes his focus:
“However, take care and be earnestly on your guard not to forget the things which your own eyes have seen, nor let them slip from your memory as long as you live, but teach them to your children and your children’s children.”
What a great reminder! Remember the blessings we have received, and the works God has done for us. Tell how God has worked miracles in our lives. Share our personal stories of divine intervention with our kids and grandkids.
I am still working out my feelings about the Catholic church, and how to rectify the contrariness I find between teachings and the command to love. I forget to count my blessings and share how God has made his presence known in my life.
Two summers ago, when I was seriously considering finding another church to attend, I received a note from my oldest grandchild. It was a handmade note, thanking me for telling them the Good News. One line in that letter stopped my deliberations. It said, “Thank you for teaching me about God and taking me to church.”
That note was not only a message from my grandchild, I believe it was a message from God.
Stay…Work it out…
I am still here, a struggling member, not always sure of how to proceed. I am stronger of faith than I once was, and I know that I belong within the church. I want to make sure, however I can, that there is room for everyone, that anyone who wants to belong is welcome.
I keep the note in my prayer book, and I see it every day. It is a reminder of the importance of sharing my faith, and of heeding the signs that come to me.
Dear Lord, give us the courage to share our faith with our children and our grandchildren. Let us be open to the myriad ways you choose to communicate your love for us. Let us never forget that you are present with us at every moment.
Amen
The Last Lap (and what comes next) 