"Remain with us the whole day, Lord, let your grace be a sun that never sets." ~ From morning prayer service
I went to the first daylong retreat at the Chemin Neuf community where the focus was Hearing God’s Call. The retreat house is on the river and it was a sunny though cool day. I sat outside after lunch and soaked up the sun, breathing in the concept of call.
From the Old Testament passage during opening prayer where Jeremiah tries to bow out saying he is too young, to Abram’s excuse of being too old, to Moses backing away saying “Who am I?” each of these people did not heartily embrace the call when it came. I enjoyed the format of the day, one where I could learn from the facilitators and those gathered to having a quiet moment on a normally busy Saturday to relax.
One of the things I noticed in the passages was that God always promised the person called something. The test in Abram’s calling that struck me was that God would bless him so that he would be a blessing. God has a master plan and it is all good. We are all called; we all have the same all (to praise, honour and serve God); all have a unique call. These three points were the foundation of the lesson.
The discussions that occurred were really thought-provoking and interesting. I am glad that in the midst of a full schedule that I was able to attend. I am already looking forward to the next one.
Tonight I saw the Ides of March and wondered how far people who do not trust in God are willing to go to pursue their calling. The film is a stark contrast to the conversations from the day. Remain with me, Lord, in the challenging moments of my vocation, and do not let you grace set on me.
Peace,
Suzanne
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