From the Deacon’s Desk:  Prayer and Inspirational Thoughts

June 20 – Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time

We are reminded in our first reading of the trials of Job.  He endured more challenges and ‘storms’ in his life than anyone I can think of.  This reading comes near the end of all his trials as God answers him.  Job has argued with God.  He has questioned him.  He has been angry with him.  But he has never lost faith in him.  God is in control!  He reminds Job – and us – that he has total control, even when we don’t understand.  And he has our back because he is a God of love.  The only answer that can be provided to certain human situations is to acknowledge that sometimes God’s ways surpass even the deepest levels of human understanding.  God says to Job; Jesus says to the apostles; and each of us is reminded that we must trust in God even when we don’t understand.  We all have faced tremendous storms in our lives at one time or another.  It is natural for us to cry out as Job or the apostles did “do you not care that we are perishing!?”  It is in these times that we must turn to our faith, trust in God, and place ourselves completely in the arms of God knowing that he will calm the storms and carry us through even the roughest of waters.

As Vincentians, we are often challenged with neighbors who are facing major storms in their lives.  In the middle of the storm, they often cannot see the hand of God ready to lift them above the turbulence in their lives.  We need to help them to trust in God’s plan and the weather the storm.  God uses us to be the calming voice in their lives.  He challenges u to be strong in our faith that we might lead others to have faith.  He is in control!  And we must trust in Him!  How do I remain strong in my faith when I am challenged with my own storms AND the storms of others?  When have I questioned God, only to see later the wisdom of his plan?

Lord Jesus, I stand in awe of your wisdom and power.  I do not always understand your ways, but give me the courage to trust completely in you.  Give me faith that I may walk in your way even when I am afraid.  Grace me with wisdom and patience to lead others to a stronger faith in your plan and a willingness to seek your will.  I trust in you in all things!  We pray all of this in your name.  Amen

Deacon Mike