To the Other Side
Arranging our move to another vicariate, in obedience to God’s call, this week’s Gospel resonated with me. In Mark 4:35 Jesus says to his disciples ‘Let us cross to the other side’. He was referring to the crossing of the Sea of Galilee. Even though we are not crossing a sea, the feelings of anxiety and dislocation are the same. ‘The other side’ is an unknown and it evokes anticipation, fear of the unfamiliar and when it is a duty, as mine is, there is the added worry of the ability to meet expectations.
Our lives today are filled with change. We change jobs, residences, careers, ministries, roles, phones, cars, and even relationships. Each transition, no matter how mundane it might seem, carries with it a sense of uncertainty and the need for trust in what lies ahead. The words of Jesus call us to have faith not only in our destination but in the change itself.
They remind us that while the other side is unknown, we do not face it alone. In our obedience to God’s calling, we are accompanied by His presence and guided by His wisdom. This reassures us that amidst the turbulence of change, there is a divine purpose and a promise of growth and development.
Jesus' call to the other side is a call to growth in spirituality and in human development. It invites us to leave behind our comfort zones and embrace the unknown with faith and courage. This journey, though often fraught with challenges, is a pathway to greater self-awareness and a deeper connection with God. As we step into new roles, environments, and responsibilities, we are given the chance to cultivate resilience, adaptability, and empathy.
Each step forward, guided by Jesus' example and teachings, allows us to grow not just in our spiritual lives but also in our capacity to love and serve others more fully. Through these transitions, we are shaped and refined, becoming more attuned to God's will and more effective instruments of His grace in the world.
Probably you are being called to a change in your life. If so, embrace it as an opportunity for growth and transformation. Reflect on how this change aligns with your spiritual journey and consider the ways in which it can deepen your relationship with God. Trust that, like the disciples crossing the Sea of Galilee, you are not alone.
Seek guidance through prayer, draw strength from your faith community, and remain open to the lessons that this new chapter may bring. Remember, every change, no matter how daunting, is a step towards becoming the person you are meant to be in God's plan. By responding to this call with courage and faith, you open yourself to the abundant possibilities of growth, both spiritually and personally.
NOTICE BOARD
Friends, I am inviting you to view two short videos on growing your spirituality through a couple of my online pastoral service, at the links below:
Video on Benedictine Spirituality LINK
JOIN Benedictine Spirituality Program
God grant me humility to accept change as a natural progression in my transformation to become more like you. Grant me wisdom that I may share with fellow travellers who are also going through change and might feel worried. Soften my heart so that your light naturally emanates from it and resonate with your Creation. In the name of Jesus.