I STRAIN FORWARD!
Blessed James Alberione is called Primo Maestro by 10 religious institutionsthat he founded. Among the congregations that he formed are the Society of Saint Paul, the Daughters of Saint Paul, the Pious Disciples of The Divine Master, the Pastorelle Sisters, and Secular Institute. These projects of Blessed Alberione were no easy work.
Before he was ordained a priest, Blessed James went through a vocation crisis. His initial steps to focus on publications as a main ministry were not viewed with kindness by some. He became sickly and this made him anxious about his worthiness to go on with his ideas and ideals for a new form of apostolate in the Church. There were also the pressures from his creditors. But a personal experience of Jesus encouraging him to persevere was what mattered. In a critical moment of his life, he heard Jesus tell him, “Do not be afraid. From here (the Eucharist) I will enlighten. Have a contrite heart.” So he went on, straining forward in the example of the Great Apostle Paul whom he venerated as father, provider and intercessor.
Our Gospel proclamation shows us how Jesus was a picture of one who was consistently on the move. No amount of rejection could stop Him. More significantly, Jesus did not allow success in mission to slow Him down.
In my own experience of apostolate and ministry for over two decades now, I realize that the greater danger to one’s passion for God and zeal for service are not the setbacks but the patronizing acts of persons around us. Like Peter acting before Jesus in the end of today’s Gospel, some people never stop telling us how good we are, or how effective our talks are. It is good to thank them, but we should never let their praises drown our humble ways. We should never be flattered into resting on our laurels. We should move on to new grounds, to new mission areas, to unexplored ways of proclaiming the Gospel. One thing is for sure: When we have become too comfortable with our life and witness, it is time to go to prayer to ask, “Lord, send me Your Spirit, and send me where You will.”Fr. Domie Guzman, SSP
REFLECTION QUESTIONS: In what ways are you still challenged by your ministry or apostolate? Have you settled into a feeling of complacency and contentment?
Lord Jesus, keep me always inspired to try new ways of doing my ministry or apostolate. Keep me always humble.
No comments:
Post a Comment