Answering the Call

I am sitting here enjoying this glorious fall morning. How I love fall. 

I have been reflecting on yesterday. Tony and I both had doctor appointments. They were several hours apart, so we visited with some friend and family. Since we do not live in town we try to make the most of our time.

I had a great visit with one of my dearest friends. She is one of the two persons who I have review my meditations or talks before I give them. I shared with her how I was now teaching CCD, first year Confirmation. She was most surprised. Yes, I told her I was surprised I accepted. I shared with her why I said yes. 

 You see, the lady who asked me is a very sweet and loving person. I first met her on a trip to Poland. We really did not talk much on that trip. But several months after our return, she called and invited me to join the Garden Club. After we got to know each other, she shared something with me. She said that she had been really sad for some time and that my smile on that trip had brought joy back into her life. She thanked me.

 

Wow, I was shocked. Who would think that a smile could help a stranger? We talked that day and she shared her story. So when she asked me, I told her I would pray on it. She told me she would teach second year and I would teach first year. When the director called, I said yes.

My friend and I laughed. I know my writings have been for adults. I do not know why now I am asked to deliver to teens. But I know that is what our Lord is asking of me. 

Last night, one of the questions was how could they rebel against our culture. One student answered by being good, at first I said no. Then I thought about it and told that student that it was a great answer, for if you are in a group that is known to be bad, being good is a rebellion. Somehow I know that made that student feel good.

 

Last night, we also had a meeting for the parents and students. Several students did not want to stay, but they did. At the meeting, I watched that student. The student's parents were not there, and the student had told me the parents made the student come to class. As I watched the student's face, I could almost hear the student's thoughts. " You make me come, but you could not come."
As I looked at my students and heard what they said, I think I can almost tell which have love and family life and which don't. 

My hope is that somehow I can show God's love to all of them, and that they can feel God's love and presence.

Sometimes we are so quick to label them as bad students, but they need so much love a guidance. We only have them for an hour, but I know God is a powerful God.

 

May He send the Holy Spirit to open their hearts and souls to hear His voice and may he guide my words.

Let us all pray for all our young teens. They are faced with so much in our world today.
Jesus, I trust in you.