New Surprises

“Newness always makes us feel a bit fearful, because we feel more secure if we have everything under control, if we are the ones who build, program, and plan our lives … This is also the case when it comes to God … We fear that God may force us to strike out on new paths and leave behind our all too narrow, closed, and selfish horizons … Let us ask ourselves today: Are we open to God’s surprises?”. (Pope Francis, homily, Pentecost 2013)

The God of surprises might be a title for God that’s hard for us to accept, because, at times, we think we have all the answers, the accurate plans, the most trustworthy solutions. In a world that is always changing, we often want things to remain unwavering; it might be difficult to embrace the newness to which the Holy Spirit calls us – new attitudes and actions that bring joy, serenity, and an enthusiastic renewal of life.

Application for Ministry: As we walk with others on this faith journey, are we open to the study and reflection that enable us to understand God in new ways? Do we teach the way we were taught, or do we search out new ways to be imaginative facilitators and prayerful catalysts?

Meditative Musing: Do I recognise the surprises of God each day, or do I want/expect everything to be exactly as it has been?

Prayer: God of surprises, show me how to cherish my firm foundations but to also embrace your ongoing call to new life, new ways, and new attitudes. Amen.Newness always makes us feel a bit fearful, because we feel more secure if we have everything under control, if we are the ones who build, program, and plan our lives … This is also the case when it comes to God … We fear that God may force us to strike out on new paths and leave behind our all too narrow, closed, and selfish horizons … Let us ask ourselves today: Are we open to God’s surprises?”. (Pope Francis, homily, Pentecost 2013)

The God of surprises might be a title for God that’s hard for us to accept, because, at times, we think we have all the answers, the accurate plans, the most trustworthy solutions. In a world that is always changing, we often want things to remain unwavering; it might be difficult to embrace the newness to which the Holy Spirit calls us – new attitudes and actions that bring joy, serenity, and an enthusiastic renewal of life.

Application for Ministry: As we walk with others on this faith journey, are we open to the study and reflection that enable us to understand God in new ways? Do we teach the way we were taught, or do we search out new ways to be imaginative facilitators and prayerful catalysts?

Meditative Musing: Do I recognise the surprises of God each day, or do I want/expect everything to be exactly as it has been?

Prayer: God of surprises, show me how to cherish my firm foundations but to also embrace your ongoing call to new life, new ways, and new attitudes. Amen.