“Go Change the World” (08/17/2024)

2006 was a tough year for me. I resigned from my job with the diocese. I wasn’t sure where I was being called, I only knew I had to make a change. A song came out that year. It was written by Carlene Thissen. “Go Change the World” challenges the listener to act in good faith for the well-being of others. While I prayerfully discerned where I was being called, the song both challenged me and offered me hope.

The song asks:

Who will know peace, because you exist?

Who will sleep easier because you lived?

Then the song suggests:

Do what comes easy- use your gifts.

Go change the world, it's not too late.

Age doesn't matter; it’s a brand new day.

Time matters- start today.

I was reminded of that song yesterday. The questions caused me to pause for some time. What difference has my life made in the lives of others? In the furthering of the LORD’s will? And while I am nearly two decades older, I realized my role in this world isn’t over yet. As the lyrics suggest, “Age doesn’t matter.” However, time does matter.

One of the things I learned decades ago that caused me great pause was that my being here changes things. That’s not an egotistical statement; it is a statement of accountability. Will my presence cause a change for the good? Will I give myself to the LORD and the LORD’s desire for me and for others?

“Do what comes easy – use your gifts.” Today I am thinking about that and how I might use the gifts I have been given in loving service to my LORD and to my sisters and brothers.

Today’s first reading from Ezekiel 18 reminds us that the LORD loves us and desires that we live. The LORD alone will judge us. And the LORD’s judgment will be based on how well we loved, how well we kept the LORD’s commandments of love. The LORD has revealed to us the power of love applied. The LORD’s love is the source of our being. The LORD’s love is the source of our redemption and the means for life.

In 2006, I left one job. In 2006, I found a new calling to serve as a seminary professor. I believe still that the LORD led me. I believe, too, that it was my participation in the LORD's divine design. I am grateful.

How will I go forward, fully engaging my God-given gifts? It will change the world. This morning, I pray that it is for the good and bring peace and love with it. How will you go forward? How will the world change because of you, your choices, your actions, your love for the LORD and others?

Until tomorrow, let us all love well.