Do you sometimes wish that you did not have to deal with what you have to deal with? Do you sometimes think that you have too many things to deal with at once?
I had one of those weeks recently when so many things were happening at once.
I said to someone that I wished that I could escape to a Trappist monastery!
Trappists are called to live in a Trappist monastery living a life of prayer active work and study. I have spent some time in such a monastery for reflection and prayer and loved it.
However, it is not my vocation to be a monk. I am meant to be out there ministering in the community wearing the ‘smell of the sheep’ in pastoral activity with people, in the hustle and bustle of daily life.
I am sure that all people in all vocations sometimes feel like running away.
Even in the most loving of families, there are moments when people feel tired and even at times somewhat overwhelmed!
The scripture readings at Mass in this last week of the liturgical year (we start advent next Sunday) speak about God’s help and strength not failing us ever.
Some words of Jesus remind us of this with life-giving freshness:
‘Come to me all you who are weary and heavily burdened and I will give you rest.’
‘Your Heavenly Father knows your needs.’
‘Do not worry about tomorrow.’
‘Heaven and earth may pass away but my word (promise) will never pass away.’
‘I am with you always even unto the end of time.’