02-27-2008
Radical LOVE
RADICAL LOVE
Revisiting a year ago, I was definitely in a Valley not a Peak, and I’m not just talking about where I reside. I have learned over time we won’t stay stuck in either place, but I admit I like the peaks much better. I remember lying on the floor in the fetal position, unrelenting tears, fears and questions abounding about my identity. I had been challenged by members of a local Church accusing me that I was not a good Catholic because of my prayer practices. My entire vocation had been devoted to ministry in the Church so I felt raped of my identity. If I wasn’t a good Catholic ~ who was I? This question would both haunt and ignite my spiritual journey. I began to seek answers. With the help of my spiritual director, trusted priests, and holy people (I know God hand picked for me); I began to grow in my understanding of who I am. I was not a good little Catholic girl at all. In fact, I am much more. I am a child of The Father of the universe; I am part of a larger community than I even realized; a community that includes, Jews, Muslims, Buddhist and Atheists. I am the beloved daughter of a God who loves all His children. I am Daddy’s lil’ girl; daughter of the King of Kings; and a member of a humongous body of believers (& non-believers)! As my hurt began to melt and immobilize me less, my heart began to expand (like the Grinch after reconciliation), and I saw a bigger world than I had previously known. It was as if the shackles came off my eyes; I now saw with global sight. As my vision grew, so did my questions. “Lord, how can we live as your children if we keep hurting each other?” His gentle whisper echoed throughout my being… “Love, Radical Love, Choose forgiveness over resentment; choose compassion over judgment; choose humility over pride; choose kindness over being ‘right’. Love so Radically that some might just persecute you for it!”Last evening at mass, I watched our son Joshua carry the cross up the aisle as an alter server. My heart overflowed. One year ago people thought I might leave the Church and told me they would understand if I had. Today, I sit in my Church as a more compassionate, accepting, and loving member. We are broken people, I should know, I have a seat there too. Today, I know whose I am, I know The Great ‘I AM’ and I know what He is calling me to … RADICAL LOVE!
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