The corridors in our cloister are long and winding. One leads to another, which leads to another, and before long we’ve reached a staircase…
We begin to step. Only one stair at a time, of course, even if we’re anxious to make our way up speedily. We do not reach holiness in one quick swoop. The realization that I can take it one step at a time actually gives me hope. And so I inch my way forward, taking today’s step toward not complaining when tempted to, tomorrow’s toward more prayer, the next day’s into opening the Bible a bit more often…
I will trip once in awhile, I will hesitate. I might take a tumble; after all, even Peter denied Jesus. But Peter didn’t stay down; he got up, allowed the Lord to forgive him, and continued his climb.
Our Lord Lights the way; He does not let me “climb” alone. As I make my way, I hold onto the strong railings of Scripture and the Catechism of the Catholic Church. When my faith and determination grow wobbly, I open those and I LEAN…..
I look up at the staircase. Have I brought with me anything that weighs me down or makes me afraid to take the next step closer to God? In Matthew 4:20 I’m told that Jesus’ first disciples, upon hearing His call, immediately dropped their nets to follow Him. Are there “nets” entangling me? Is there some sin or vice that I need to drop?
If so, I can talk to Jesus about it right here, right now. So what if I just stumbled across a random blog? Even while looking at a computer screen, I can pray. Jesus' mercy and love are waiting for ME.
For prayer and meditation:
“I will instruct you and show you the way you should walk; I will counsel you, keeping My eye on you.” Psalm 32:8
“Lead me in the path of your commands, for in it I delight.” Psalm 119:33-35
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