Jesus, Almighty Savior, come to my aid.
~St. John Neumann
The dawn of the New Year brought heavy rains to coastal California. Our windshield wipers danced quickly, working hard to maintain visibility while we made our way back home after a few days of visiting dear friends.
As I looked out the car window at the rain soaked hillsides, I thought to myself how appropriate this scene was, the old year was being washed away and the earth’s rough exterior was being softened, preparing for something new. In the quiet of that moment the falling rain seemed to speak to my heart, “prepare yourself for something new”.
Thoughts of mother Mary came to my mind, “Be it done to me according to thy word” (Luke 1:38). Divine will ruled her life. Humble obedience was her gift to God and she lived out her daily life simply taking care of the task at hand and faithfully accomplishing it.
Amazing grace was hers, and the spirit of the Lord that came upon her remained with her forever.
Her sweet surrender is a daunting thought.
I began to think of resolutions for the New Year,something I have never been good at. But the thought of Mary grew within me while I prayed to the Lord, “Thy will be done”. Then I heard a gentle whisper say, “ Live in the present moment, be attentive to those around you and complete each task given you faithfully. The rest will follow.”
God's plan for us is so simple. Why do we always try to make it more complicated?
May God be with you all in this New Year.
