A week ago, I sent an email asking parishioners to share ways they've experienced God working in their lives lately. I want to share some responses to encourage all of us to open our hearts to God's never-failing presence!
A common theme is how God is drawing people together as families. One parishioner said, "There are four of us living under one roof. Everyone is getting along well, sharing responsibilities, and telling stories, which makes me very happy. I believe God is bringing us closer together."
A young mother writes, "My husband and I lead very busy lives. It has been nice to slow down, and really get to know each other again. I love watching him and our daughter spend quality time together. I sense God is teaching us to appreciate and accept each other. Not just us, but in the world as a whole."
Another young mother said, "Before quarantine, it never felt like there was enough time. We live in fast forward with two kids active in sports, music and friends. We were always pushing forward to the next event on the calendar. Just to sit and talk with our kids, play cards, ping pong, darts, outdoor activities has been great. Though it's been an adjustment, it's been nice to have them here with us. My daughter even told me I’m her best friend. I told her that may change in her teens. She reassured me it won’t, and I said I'd hold her to that!"
A particularly striking testimony came from a mother who wrote, "I had been praying several months for more connection in my marriage and family. It's been strange to think that a pandemic has been an answer, but God has used this time to answer my prayers. My husband and I have become connected in more ways than I ever imagined. I felt defeated this past year because despite wanting another child, the stress of daily life caused me to fear this. Out of nowhere, God has put a great desire on my heart to want another child. All the stress over the woes of motherhood and parenting has vanished. At first, I thought, "How could this be?" But the desire gets stronger each day. I'm filled with joy at what the future may hold for my family. The saying "All in God's time" is absolutely true!
Numerous parishioners shared how they're praying more as families. One mother shared how they're praying the Rosary together each evening after dinner. Some are looking at the Scripture readings for Sunday Mass ahead of time and having a conversation about them. Others are watching various video studies on Formed.org and talking about the videos together.
A number of people acknowledged how hard it is not to be able to see some famiily members right now, and how much they miss them. One parishioner wrote, "Times like this remind us how blessed we are to have each other, and that we shouldn't take for granted the people we have in our lives." Amen to that!
There are more testimonies I can share over the coming days. Let these be an encouragement to you that God is with you. Keep seeking him each day and trusting in Jesus even more!