Recognition (10/12/2023)

Yesterday, I had a most embarrassing moment when I failed to recognize one whom I should. I know this individual from a particular place. That’s the only time I have ever seen her. I totally associate her with her place of employment. So, yesterday when I encountered her in a new place, I failed to recognize her. She tried to give me hints as to her identity, but it was to no avail. I finally had to admit that while she looked so very familiar, I couldn’t recall. Sometimes, it seems, I can’t recognize one I know because I encounter them in an unexpected place.

I thought about that again last evening over my pre-bedtime reflection. I prayed for help with my memory. And then I pondered the possibility that I don’t recognize the LORD at work in my life because I encounter this wonder in a place that I’m not expecting it. I asked the LORD to open my eyes so that I see more clearly and open my heart to the wonders I’m not expecting but are truly there.

I am reminded of an activity that I used to ask the youth to do in class for faith formation. I would ask them what they did earlier in the day. Then I’d ask what stood out about what others were doing that day. Finally, I’d ask them what the LORD was doing through them or others. Part of our faith is the recognition that our LORD is an active LORD, present to us. Which leads to the question, and what is the LORD doing? Where do we see signs of the LORD’s power and presence?

It’s not that the LORD isn’t here or there. It’s not that the LORD isn’t always wielding power. It’s often a case of us not recognizing it because we aren’t looking for it there or then. How different would the world be, would we be if we looked for Christ everywhere, everyday? How different would the world be, would we be, if we recognized that at times, He desires to work through us?

As we continue our journey in faith, hope, and love, let us open ourselves to what is around us. Let us search for the LORD with all our heart, seeking to recognize the LORD at work in our world. Let us commit to opening ourselves to the Spirit who can make us instruments of the LORD’s presence in the world.

Until tomorrow, let us all love well.