Because we have freedom we are able to wander where we want. We are able to move away from God, to the point where we no longer believe in Him; if this is what we want.
But this does not stop Him of searching for us. Encouraging us to return to His love and home.
As Jesus said, He will leave the ninety-nine sheep to go searching for the lost one.
Of course, not every one returns to God. Some decide to go and wander their own way.
But God never stops calling. Sometimes, something someone says, a chance meeting with someone, or an event in one's life, may be enough to trigger our attention. To make us think again. Perhaps hear His voice ... and return to Him.
Christmas is the time when people sometimes visit the church. Often, they probably just go to church just once a year - at Christmas.
Our church is always full to capacity at Christmas. Especially for midnight Mass, when the pubs are shut and people call in on their way home.
Of course they are welcome. Who knows, the few minutes that they are there in church something inside them may light up like a small flame that makes them want to return for ever.
This Christmas, if you know someone who does not go to church, why not invite them for just one occasion.
Who knows ... that might be enough to make them hear the call their soul yearns for.
What a privilege if, through you, someone returns to God.
Isn't it wonderful Victor, that God, when H e goes looking for that one lost sheep, doesn't tether the sheep and drag it bag kicking and screaming! All God does is find that lost sheep turn around and let that sheep make the choice to follow Him back home, or not. God is the best shepherd there is. This is why when His sheep wander, most will find their way home again.
ReplyDeleteA wonderful post Victor...thank you.
Blessings to You and to Your Family ✝
Thank you Jan. Yes, you're right. We always have the choice not to follow God's Word, not to listen to Him, and not to believe He exists even.
DeleteHe leads. It is up to us whether to follow or not. He never stops calling though.
May God bless you and your family always.
Great thoughts! I read an article yesterday that said that people who go to Mass each week shouldn't complain about the people who only show up for Christmas and Easter. Instead, if we're welcoming and friendly they might decide to come back on a more regular basis.
ReplyDeleteYes, you are so right Kathy. We should welcome such people because our attitude may well encourage them to come to church more often, and regularly.
DeleteGod bless.
It is so crowded at Christmas.
ReplyDeleteAnd that is good ... is it not?
DeleteGod bless.
Not my story to tell, but this reminded me of a loved one's experience while abroad. Once angered, "T" turned his back to God at an early age. Then years later while travelling through Germany - out of the blue - he suddenly felt it necessary to pull off to the side of the road. For what seemed like a long time he sat and wept his heart out: "I'm so sorry, God." Ya, I believe in angels.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful story, and how kind of you to share it with us Mevely. Yes ... I believe you are right. Sometimes, the slightest thing, will result as a "call-back" and people who have gone astray will hear His call.
DeleteGod bless you Mevely. Wonderful story.
We never know how what we say and how we act could convince another person to give God a try. Jesus is ever searching for His lost sheep. I know, because for many years, I was one. Lost, but now found, and constantly rejoicing!
ReplyDeleteYes, Victor, I'm back from vacation!
It's so good to see you back from holiday, Martha. I hope you had a splendid time. Welcome back.
DeleteIndeed, as you say, sometimes something someone says could affect someone else and lead them back to God. So glad you were found and are now rejoicing.
God bless you Martha, and your family.
Amen. I sure am glad that God doesn't give up on us.
ReplyDeleteAmen indeed Happyone. Amen.
DeleteGod bless.
Actions speak louder than words in many situations. Great post, Victor!
ReplyDeleteThank you Terri.
DeleteGod bless you.
Someone said how important it is to be transparent so that God could be seen through us.
ReplyDeleteWell written.
Thank you Susan. Of course, whether good or bad, we are always an example to others.
DeleteGod bless.