St. Pascal Baylon Catholic Church

Usually, I like to do a single winter reading recommendation for spiritual books, but I recently came across a wonderful book of daily reflections entitled “Jesus Calling” by Sarah Young. I found this book via Facebook. A high school friend who has struggled with addiction and who is many years sober posted the daily reflection books that have helped her in her struggle and brought her closer to God. Some other friends from high school commented that the book “Jesus Calling” has been an important part of their faith life. I went ahead and bought the kindle version of the book and it is now an important part of my daily prayer life. The reflections all have the themes of letting go and placing our trust in Jesus, and that Jesus is always there with us and for us. A message that any Christian can never tire of hearing especially in tough and trying times.

Instead of rattling on and on about the book, I thought I would just give you a couple of examples of some daily meditations.

June 3:  I WANT TO BE CENTRAL in your entire being. When your focus is firmly on Me, My Peace displaces fears and worries. They will encircle you, seeking entrance, so you must stay alert. Let trust and thankfulness stand guard, turning back fear before it can gain a foothold. There is no fear in My Love, which shines on you continually. Sit quietly in My Love-Light while I bless you with radiant Peace. Turn your whole being to trusting and loving Me.

May 12:  LEARN TO RELATE to others through My Love rather than yours. Your human love is ever so limited, full of flaws and manipulation. My loving Presence, which always enfolds you, is available to bless others as well as you. Instead of trying harder to help people through your own paltry supplies, become aware of My unlimited supply, which is accessible to you continually. Let My Love envelop your outreach to other people. Many of My precious children have fallen prey to burnout. A better description of their condition might be “drainout.” Countless interactions with needy people have drained them, without their conscious awareness. You are among these weary ones, who are like wounded soldiers needing R & R. Take time to rest in the Love-Light of My Presence. I will gradually restore to you the energy that you have lost over the years. Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and you will find rest for your souls.

And my personal favorite of the last two months of meditations:

May 31:  THE PEACE THAT I GIVE YOU transcends your intellect. When most of your mental energy goes into efforts to figure things out, you are unable to receive this glorious gift. I look into your mind and see thoughts spinning round and round: going nowhere, accomplishing nothing. All the while, My Peace hovers over you, searching for a place to land. Be still in My Presence, inviting Me to control your thoughts. Let My Light soak into your mind and heart until you are aglow with My very Being. This is the most effective way to receive My Peace.

Maybe these mediations are illuminating where I am in my life and relationship with Jesus, but I find them right on target and pushing me in a direction I know I need to travel in my relationship with Jesus. If these meditations resonated with you, I would encourage you to make “Jesus Calling” part of your daily prayer time.

Peace, Love, and Blessings

Deacon Richard