Sometimes Things Get Messy
Though it was weeks ago, the National Eucharistic Congress is still bearing fruit… there’s a steady flame of fire in my heart, and I’m most grateful. A memory stirs that I think gives a beautiful spiritual insight beneficial to us all.
So much of the Congress was impeccably planned and perfectly executed. Liturgies were sharp, talks began and ended on time, there was incredible intentionality in the production and in the decorations. So much work went into everything looking–and being–so great.
But one night, walking back from the Eucharistic Holy Hour, as everyone was returning to their hotels, my path took me through the upstairs area of the convention center, around a corner where I was shocked by what I saw…there were toys and games and playground equipment EVERYWHERE. It was a mess!! And not a single child or parent in sight.
I admit that the first thought that ran through my mind was who left this mess? Then the Lord spoke in my heart…
I stopped dead in my tracks and began to see that mess in a whole new light. That mess meant something. Objectively, it meant that families and children were here, giving life to the Congress. How good that they are here! What it must have looked like when this place was filled with tiny disciples, with parents needing some respite from entertaining their littles. Spiritually, the Lord used it to remind me of my soul…frequently distracted, in constant need of His cleaning and saving grace, but a place where He delights to be.
Let the children come to me…let them make a mess; I don’t mind. How often am I more than pleased to walk into the messes you make?
Are you a messy disciple? The Good News is that the Lord loves messes. He is drawn to them. And for that:
Praised be Jesus Christ, now and forever!
All you holy saints, pray for us!
Peace in Christ,
Fr. Michael
Pastor