Seek the LORD while he may be found, call him while he is near.
Let the scoundrel forsake his way, and the wicked his thoughts; let him turn to the LORD for mercy; to our God, who is generous in forgiving.
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, says the LORD.
As high as the heavens are above the earth, so high are my ways above your ways and my thoughts above your thoughts.
REFLECTION
Saint Teresa of Jesus of the Andes was a young Chilean nun born in July 13, 1900. She was baptized Juana (Juanita). She came from a very devout , and was educated by the French nuns of the Sacred Heart. She joined the Carmelite order in 1919. In early 1920 she became ill with typhus, and because of the imminent danger of death, received the last rites, and was allowed to make her religious profession on April 7. She went to her eternal reward on April 12, 1920.
Externally she was a "good" child from a "good" family. She was loved by her parents and siblings. Had the usual friends and frenemies in school. Still, she struggled because of these earthly comforts and her strong temperament. She received many graces and strength after her first communion. She grew more and more in love with Jesus. And she shared this love with all who knew her.
On today's first reading, Isaiah tells us to "Seek the LORD while He might be found" reminds me of one of St. Teresa of the Andes most famous quote: "Until heaven! Life is so short!"
We are all aware life is short. We just don't like to think about it or accept it. And yet, we have to remember our time here is limited. So I ask myself, what am I doing with it?
Most likely I will not reach the levels of sanctity Saint Teresa of the Andes achieved. And like a faulty human I am, many times I get overwhelmed when I don't know what is God's will. Sometimes indecision can be paralyzing. And this is mostly because I don't want to make a mistake.
Then I recall the words of another nun, Mother Angelica, and replay in my mind her booming voice saying: "You only know God's will in the rearview mirror. Start walking. Make a decision."
So, let's recall to seek the LORD while we still can. Sometimes we might err, and that is part of our limited nature. Let us pray to God to help us make the most of this our time on earth. Not for our gain. But in service to Him.
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