Last Sunday was vocations Sunday. As well as living together in Christian community and studying our Catholic faith, part of the focus of our year is very much to discern what God is calling us to as young Catholics in today’s world. Sometimes there is the temptation to keep as many options in life open as possible so as to remain ‘free’ – and there can often be a fear of losing something valuable to us by committing. In reality of course it is in making positive and generous decisions that we find the freedom to grow and thrive. This struggle between fear and the promise of growth is very real for young people like ourselves – and it surfaces anew when we contemplate the challenge to follow Jesus Christ with all our hearts and to be ready to give him everything! The words Pope Benedict gave us during his inauguration as Pope speak of this challenge and are a source of hope and help to young people the world over:“Are we not perhaps all afraid in some way? If we let Christ enter fully into our lives, if we open ourselves totally to him, are we not afraid that He might take something away from us? Are we not perhaps afraid to give up something significant, something unique, something that makes life so beautiful? Do we not then risk ending up diminished and deprived of our freedom? … No! If we let Christ into our lives, we lose nothing, nothing, absolutely nothing of what makes life free, beautiful and great. No! Only in this friendship are the doors of life opened wide... Do not be afraid of Christ! He takes nothing away, and he gives you everything. When we give ourselves to him, we receive a hundredfold in return. Yes, open, open wide the doors to Christ – and you will find true life. Amen.”
Lets pray for all young people in their struggle to follow Christ and give him everything he asks!
1 comment:
Amen! Can't hear that quote too often.
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