Saturday of the Fifth Week of Easter
One of the most challenging things we face as disciples is discerning God’s will for us. Whether it is the day to day activities, or the larger decisions- jobs, marriage, moves- we are called to pursue the choices that are God’s desire for us. In today’s first reading, St. Paul receives guidance from the Holy Spirit as he travels with Timothy spreading the Good News. Jesus reminds us in the gospel that God’s will for us may involve suffering and sacrifice, since we follow Jesus. As disciples of Christ, we will be led by the Spirit if we prayerfully turn to God and place our trust in God’s revelations.
In the scripture reading from Acts, St. Paul is traveling throughout many communities sharing the news of Jesus and His teachings. There are several times that the Spirit of Jesus does not allow him to enter into certain towns. St. Paul also receives a vision where a Macedonian begs him to come share the Good News with their communities. Because of St. Paul’s deep trust in Jesus, St. Paul is able to discern the will of God and God’s plan for evangelization. St. Paul recognizes the gifts that he has to share, and he is open and courageous as he steps forth in faith. Because of St. Paul’s willingness and generosity, the faith of many is strengthened and the churches increase in size.
In the gospel reading, Jesus reminds the disciples (and us) that doing the will of God may not always be easy, and oftentimes involves suffering and sacrifice. Since disciples of Christ are not of this world, Jesus reminds his followers that the world will hate those associated with Him, since they persecuted Him as well. Jesus reminds His disciples that they have been chosen out of the world, and for this reason the “world will hate you.” Jesus shares this message not to be discouraging, but to help His followers to recognize that they will need courage and grace to be like Him.
How are we called to hear God’s voice and recognize God’s will for us? Unlike St. Paul, I have not had any occasions where God has spoken to me nor have I seen visions instructing me what to do. Discernment is a process that we can use to help understand what God might be saying to us. St. Ignatius in the Spiritual Exercises includes a description of steps that are necessary to help with discernment. He suggests that we must first understand the concern or question that needs to be addressed. Then we recognize that whatever we decide should bring us closer to God and give God glory. Because of our faith, we are able to believe that God will guide us in our decisions as we evaluate the various options in light of our gifts and talents. We then need to find the most reasonable decision and take this decision in prayer to God as we await God’s confirmation. St. Ignatius also teaches that it is helpful if you have the following seven attitudes when discerning God’s will: openness, generosity, courage, interior freedom (to do God’s will without worry or attachments), regular prayerful reflections ( e.g. Examen), having our priorities in proper order( desiring God’s will and doing all for the love of God), and “not confusing ends with means” (choosing God and His plan first.) There are many different “techniques” that St. Ignatius suggests in the Spiritual Exercises, but the main focus of these various approaches is to prayerfully approach a decision from many different positions and trust in God’s desire for you. Usually, when the choice you make is God’s will, you will experience a deep sense of peace.
This helpful guidance St Ignatius offers can be put into practice for decisions that have greater impacts on our lives. Big decisions such as discerning who you choose as a partner, finding your vocation, and choosing where you live are major choices that require deep prayerful listening and faith in God’s desire to bring you to wholeness. Discerning God in the details of our daily lives is slightly different. We may not have long stretches of time and reflection to help guide our minute to minute decisions. However, through regular reflective prayer (such as the Examen) and a deep desire to serve and love God in our lives, God will reveal the path for us in small signs and “whispers” that come from the people and world around us. Through our prayer and deepening relationship with God, the Spirit will show us where we are called to best serve, to love and to give God glory. Although the journey of faith may not always be easy, Jesus assures us that He has already walked this path. Jesus also reminds us that we are not alone, and His Spirit will provide the grace and wisdom needed as we step out in faith.
Loving God, Jesus shows us how to live a life of service for Your glory. Send down Your Spirit, so we can discern Your will for our lives. May we grow in faith as we prayerfully seek ways to increase our love for You. May all that we do and say give you glory. We pray this in Christ’s name. Amen.
Marylynn Herchline