In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to fall into the habit of constant activity, always striving to do more and achieve more. While being a “doer” is often celebrated, it’s essential to remember that our faith calls us to balance action with contemplation. The Gospel teaches us that we must not only work diligently but also take time to reflect, meditate, and discern God's will for our lives.
When I went on vacation this past week to the beach, I spent time every morning watching the sunrise. In those quiet moments, I spent time talking to God, reflecting on His will for my life, and meditating on the future. It’s in these peaceful hours that I find clarity, strength, and a deeper understanding of how I should live out my faith. This daily practice helped me align my actions with God’s will, ensuring that my efforts are not just busywork but truly fruitful in advancing His kingdom.
In the story of Martha and Mary (Luke 10:38-42), we see a clear example of this balance. Martha is busy serving, while Mary sits at Jesus’ feet, listening to His words. When Martha asks Jesus to tell Mary to help her, He gently reminds her that Mary has chosen the better part. This passage is not a condemnation of action but rather an invitation to prioritize our relationship with God above all else. Before we can effectively serve others, we must first be rooted in the love and guidance of Christ.
Taking time for reflection and prayer allows us to align our actions with God’s will. Without this spiritual grounding, our efforts, no matter how well-intentioned, can become misguided or even counterproductive. As Catholics, we are called to discern our vocations and the ways in which we can best serve God and our neighbors. This discernment requires quiet moments of prayer, meditation, and listening to the Holy Spirit.
Furthermore, Jesus Himself frequently took time away from His ministry to pray and be alone with the Father (Mark 1:35, Luke 5:16). If Jesus, who was perfect, saw the need for regular prayer and reflection, how much more do we need it? By following His example, we allow ourselves to be refreshed and guided by the Holy Spirit, ensuring that our actions are not just busywork but truly fruitful in advancing God’s kingdom.
Finally, taking time to reflect and meditate helps us to remain humble. When we are constantly doing, we can fall into the trap of thinking that everything depends on us. However, when we pause to pray and reflect, we are reminded of our dependence on God and the importance of surrendering our will to His. This humility is crucial in our journey of faith, as it keeps us grounded and focused on what truly matters.
While action is an essential part of our Christian life, it must be balanced with reflection and prayer. By taking time to seek God’s guidance and understand His will for us, we ensure that our efforts are aligned with His divine plan, allowing us to serve more effectively and grow deeper in our faith.
Blessings,
Deacon Mike
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