We ask many things from God; have you done what He asks of you? - Daily Bible Reflections January 6,2014

NOT MUTUALLY

EXCLUSIVE

 

(We) receive from him anything we ask, because we keep his commands and do what pleases him. – 1 John 3:22

 

I know of a married couple who constantly prayed for individual fulfillment. They decided not to have kids for fear that they would no longer be able to prioritize their budding careers or the life goals that they had set for themselves.

       One day, they met a priest who asked why they were against conceiving a child. After listening to their explanation, the priest responded, “One day, when you’re standing at heaven’s gate and God asks how many children you have and your answer is none, He might say, ‘But I blessed you with a child! What happened?’”

       With those words, the couple decided to let nature take its course. Sure enough, within a year, they were pregnant with their baby boy. As they experienced the joys of raising their son, who eventually grew up to be quite intelligent, they realized that it was their child who eventually defined their true achievement and success in life.

       It was a reminder that God’s will and our personal dreams are not mutually exclusive but somehow go hand in hand for a greater good. We must have faith and patience in His plan as He moves to answer our prayers. Eleanore Teo (elyo.lee@gmail.com)

 

Reflection: We ask many things from God; have you done what He asks of you?

 

Lord, I patiently wait for Your blessings. Take all the time You need as I know You have patiently loved me through all my shortcomings.

 

St. Andre Bessette, religious, pray for us.