May Day!

If you really wish to serve
Your brothers and sisters,
Let Christ reign in your hearts.
Let him strengthen you in virtue
And fill you above all with his charity.
Let him guide you along the path
That leads to holiness…
Do not be afraid to be saints!

~ Pope John Paul II, 1989

May has arrived!! And what an arrival, if I may say so. It appears to still be snowing outside. Driving outside the city is treacherous. Maybe it is a good thing I still have not switched over my snow tires. I remember attending a May Day celebration in Washington, DC in an upscale neighbourhood with a friend from St. Augustine when I lived there. The party was complete with a May Pole which we did indeed dance around. No snow that day—only the warmth of the sun and fragrant smell of magnolias in the air.

Today is also the beatification of John Paul II. It seems apropos on May Day—or International Workers Day—since he had a special place in his heart for workers, writing an encyclical on the theme of Human Work. In it, he stated: the Church considers it her task always to call attention to the dignity and rights of those who work (and) to condemn situations in which that dignity and those rights are violated. Social justice is such a passion of mine and I appreciate these words.

The quote regarding service and the path to holiness rings true for me. My most significant life experiences are those that entail service or being present to those in need. A loving heart was required in many instances. I remember clearing a field in Guatemala for a house that was being built and with each swing of the pickaxe, I prayed for a friend in need. I really should try to offer my work up daily and see what occurs.

I am not aiming to be a saint, but I do have a goal to live a sacred life, one where Christ rules in my heart. I hope to follow Christ on the path that leads to holiness and be a servant that exudes the love, joy, and peace of the One who leads.

Peace,

Suzanne