September 2022
Reflections of God's Goodness
As Catholic Christians, our goal is not to just learn about God but to meet God!
Most of us grew up thinking the way to heaven is outlined in a list of rules we should not break or a list of things we must do. When you add to that and the noisy world we live in, the myriad of choices we have, the pace we keep and the constant messages aimed at our brain, it’s no wonder we fail to experience the intimacy with the Living God that He desires. We can’t hear God when we are listening to something else.
An intimate relationship with God takes time and energy. One of the most important and effective way we come to know God is through his word. Scripture is a living and active partner in coming closer to God.
“Indeed, the word of God is living and effective, sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating even between soul and spirit, joints and marrow, and able to discern reflections and thoughts of the heart.”
What keeps us from giving more time to God?
“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you of two minds.”
Sometimes we have things in our life that come between us and God. We need to let go of unforgiveness so that our hearts can be more open to God’s grace. We need to seek God every day and be intentional about our time with Him. Find a quiet place to be with the Lord so that it is easier to hear Him.
“When you call me, and come and pray to me, I will listen to you. When you look for me, you will find me. Yes, when you seek me with all your heart, I will let you find me. . .”
God desires to have an intimate relationship with each one of us. He speaks to us through His word, through His creation and through His people. This month let’s be intentional about time to be quiet before the Lord. Let’s open our eyes to see Him in His creation. Let’s open our ears to hear God speak through His people, our family, our friends and even strangers. Most of all, let’s try to open our heart to the heart of God.
May we find grace, and wonder, and friendship with God through our efforts to draw closer to Him.
Blessings,
Sister Mary Ann Barnhorn, SNDdeN
“Now this is eternal life, that they should know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ.”
