Prayers Heard and Answered
Does this sound like a familiar scenario to many of you? I began by asking God to give me not only the opportunity, but also the right words. Then I prayed for wisdom and discernment and courage. After a time, recognizing that my words or actions may not be the ones to make a difference, I prayed that someone else would have the right words at the right time. I hoped that the way I live my life might provide some small examples of how God works and what joy it is to know, love and serve Him. Finally, I came to the realization that I might not be on this earth long enough to witness an answer to my prayers.
Of course, I continue to pray for these loved ones. I pray that they will know the grace of God and feel Him working through them, well before their lives in this world come to an end.
I pray daily that all my loved ones will know, love and serve our Lord. Jesus, may your light shine on all who dwell in darkness. These are good people who live their lives loving and serving others. But some do not accept in their hearts the reason why they do this. They deprive themselves of the joy and hope that comes from believing in and acknowledging the One Who Gives Life Purpose.
I am overjoyed to share with you that I am seeing a light at the end of the tunnel, an answer to my most fervent daily prayer. Through a recent time of great sorrow affecting one of our dear ones, seeds of hope and faith have been planted. This is due in large part to how the now-deceased, special person lived her life in Christ. I believe the other part is due to God answering my prayers. What we say and do and how we live our lives does have an impact! And never underestimate the power of intercessory prayer. Hope always and pray without ceasing.
The Gospels relate many examples of Jesus frequently taking time for prayer. He taught us how to pray using the words of the Our Father. He petitioned His Father on our behalf. We know He praised God and offered prayers of thanksgiving. My best takeaway is that Jesus prayed with patience and complete trust in God.
Look back on your own Lenten journeys. If you have grown spiritually during these past 40 days, if your heart has been changed in some way, I guarantee you have been praying more. Let’s keep up the good work!
I am praying special blessings for you during these powerfully holy days of Triduum.
May you experience an Easter of renewed faith, joy and hope in the Resurrection.
