Is it possible that God answers our prayers in ways that do not align exactly with our desires? Or is it that while God answers our prayers, He may not shield us entirely from challenges or distress? He may provide assistance through the people He sends our way, but still, we are required to exercise patience in dealing with our struggles.
Recently, I prayed to God for help. I believe He responded by directing the right person to aid me through my difficulties. However, I continue to face God’s challenge of trusting Him and committing all my worries and concerns to His care. This entails refraining from murmuring against God or anyone else, as illustrated in this Sunday’s (August 4) First Reading from the Book of Exodus (16:2-4, 13-15). I must learn to be content with the blessings He bestows upon me, express gratitude, and have faith in His plan for my life. It is crucial to maintain trust in His companionship along my journey.
Complete confidence in God or surrendering to His will is not a simple task. Yet, I firmly believe that God recognizes our sincere efforts in embracing His providential care for us and will reward us spiritually in His divine timing.
Often, the key to overcoming life’s challenges lies not in finding a definitive solution but in cultivating virtues like courage, patience, hope, and trust to face life’s complexities with resilience. This resilience itself is a grace from God.
I recall a poignant story concerning the encounter between John Kavanaugh, a renowned ethicist, and Mother Teresa of Calcutta. John spent three months working at “the house of the dying,” seeking guidance on how to best serve his remaining days. Upon meeting Mother Teresa, he requested her prayers for clarity. However, her response was unexpected. She denied his request, emphasizing that clinging to clarity was hindering his spiritual progress. Instead, she advocated for trust in God, highlighting her own reliance on trust rather than clarity in her remarkable journey.
Indeed, what we often seek as ‘bread’ from God may not align with our true needs. Rather, the essential gift we require is unwavering faith in God under all circumstances. May God bless us with this precious gift of faith.
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The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
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Fr. Rodel “Odey” Balagtas is the pastor of Incarnation Church in Glendale, California.
