You Are Here

I trust that for everything that I do, it was part of a plan that God had planned for. A good example was this morning when I had planned to wake up at 9.30am and go for the 10.45am mass. Instead, I woke up later, 10.30am. The feeling was not good as waking 1 hr earlier could have meant I could have that extra 1 hr to do what I wanted to do today. (just in case you're wondering why I woke up late, I slept at almost 3.30am) I woke up knowing that I need to check what is the next mass time that I can make it for. And there was another at 11.30am.

It was a guest celebrant for that mass, only know him as Fr Joe from Franciscan Missionary. I was quite distracted during mass. And somewhere during homily, I managed to catch Fr Joe mentioned that in this time of recession, many people are turning to religion for divine intervention in any ways. What he said just struck a chord with how my life has been lately. I'm not that affected by the recession, I'm thankful for that, it's something else.

I'm grateful that I "subscribe" to this daily bible verse sent through sms. Of late it just seemed like God sent me many encouragements to hang'in there. I'm glad that during my low times, I kept Him in my life. Or maybe I should say that I only remember Him in times of need.

The hymns that we sang today reminded me constantly that I am His. That I am always in His care, He is my refuge, He will see through all that is to come. I felt so loved. A feeling which felt so familiar but lost I it when I tried so hard in controlling my life. The days where no matter how tough times were I would hold on to him and let Him lead. These days, I only tell Him to lead and really expect my cross to be lifted instantly. And when I can't feel it, I get frustrated. The fact is, He has always been there. I just did not see Him and put my trust forth.

Another thing that Fr Joe said, what do we do to show others that we are Christians? That we just put words of praises on our lips? That I abstain on meat to show that I am a good follower? Instantly my brain refers this statement to a colleague who shares the same religion as me and what the person is doing towards me now. I have been so focused on all the negative vibes and it really upsetted me. Fr Joe reminded me of a sentence which I won't remember in such trying times - No matter what, keep your smile. It makes your enemies wonders what you are up to. I must admit that it was tough being a Christian in office these days. In my heart, I was hoping so hard that person would get the same message today. I realised while I focused so much on what is done against me, I fell into the trap that would make the evil one happy. How my secret hoping that some justice could be done treated an eye for an eye. What a Christian have I been too?

It's a new week, a fresh start. Help me Lord, to live my life this week with what you have always wanted us to do. "Go forth to love and serve the Lord." Keep me with you. For every trial, Your graces are there enough for me. Teach me to entrust my life in your hands, once again.

You Are Here

You are here in our midst.
How we've waited for moments like this.
Have Your way in this place.
Holy Spirit come do as you wish.
We are changed as You move in our midst.
You are here among us for we have gathered in Your Name.
We can feel Your presence in this place.
You are here among us.
You are enthroned upon Your praise.
You are here, here to heal and here to save.

©1996 Don Moen / Marty Nystrom By Integrity / Hosanna Music
Words and Music by Don Moen/Marty Nystrom