“Send me to Judah…so that I may rebuild it.” Nehemiah 2:1-8
When I was teen my father, mother and I used to watch the popular sitcom, “The Jeffersons”. It was a show that aired in the late 70s. The theme song had the lyrics, “movin on up to the deluxe apartment in the sky… we finally got a piece of the pie”. It was about a family that moved from Queens to Manhattan, had struggled then with the success of their dry cleaning business they lived a comfortable and wealthy life. It was a dream for them as it is for most. Being raised in a immigrant family we lived a life of trial and triumph to achieve a dream. My grandparents, parents and relatives worked hard and persevered for a better life for their family. What rooted us the most was fellowship, faith and love. They filled us with passion, purpose and respect. My ancestors focused on building the kingdom within our hearts as well as a strong work ethic. This strengthened us and raised us up. They selflessly lived and sacrificed everything for their family. They lived the life God called them to live and build.
Saint Francis of Assisi, was raised in a wealthy home and confused about his life. Until, in prayer he heard the, “voice of Christ” calling him to rebuild the Christian church and live in poverty. He abandoned everything and lived the rest of his life in poverty and in service to God. He became a Roman Catholic friar, deacon and preacher. He founded many Orders for friars and women. Saint Francis wrote a song that touched my heart from a very young age called, Make Me a Channel of Your Peace. It embodies true inner beauty. Both then and now when I am troubled or confused about something I hum or sing it. It fills you up. It gives peace. If you want to live a life of joy, you must seek and offer joy every moment of your life. Your purpose should be to build the kingdom of God within and in the lives of others. Bring the light to others. Saint Francis of Assisi shows us a beautiful way on how to live our lives. May you be a instrument of peace.
We all want a beautiful life. One that is filled will peace, love and security. Beautiful things are a blessing, but are worthless if you lack the wisdom and wonder to know that it all is only possible through God’s will for us. We reap from our labours only through the will of God. Your work place can be a challenge or filled with joy. It can be a place of self or a place of offering. Imagine, going to work everyday surrounded by people that inspired you and raised you up. When you set your mind to build up, you scatter seeds of beauty that will reap incredible joy. Nehemiah is saddened by the destruction and death of souls and life he sees around him. But he has hope in God. Rise and realize you are here to fulfill an incredible purpose. One that must be rooted in love and hope. If the days get darker and it gets difficult, be vigilant in the reminder in Scripture, we are sent where we are needed to reach the destitute and sinners. On God’s journey for you, whether you are a student or an evangelist, your success lies in God. Pray. Attend Sunday mass. Let God transform your interior.
May your heart rest in, His will be done and as we forgive those who trespass against us. May you be raised up. Spread joy and kindness. Have hope. Shine your light. Be a beacon of joy and love. B
Here is Make Me a Channel of Your Peace by Susan Doyle.
Peace be with you,
Claudia
Our Nourished Soul