As many of you know, I’ve been reading through St. Teresa of Avila’s book “The Interior Castle” on my podcast.
A few readings back, she was talking about how if you only ever want to do things for God when it feels good and you get lots of consolations, that’s fine, but it’s not a noble reason.
I had to check myself on this.
When I go in pilgrimage, I feel energized. When I study the Faith, I have a real sense of accomplishment. When I show up here everyday to write, I feel compelled—I enjoy teaching and writing. When I’m asked by the different parishes I’ve belonged to, to help with teaching in some capacity, I do it willingly.
These are all things that make me feel good, so they are easy to do for God.
I had to ask myself, though, would I still be willing to serve God in ways that don’t necessarily feel good? What if what He’s asking seems too hard. Causes too much friction? Makes me unpopular?
If I’m being honest, I’m less inclined, I think. Which means, as St. Teresa explains, I need to find more noble reasons.
In our reading from Acts today, St. Paul tells the presbyters at Ephesus that the Holy Spirit is warning him “that imprisonment and hardships await.”
He responds like a true saint: “Yet I consider life of no importance to me, if only I may finish my course and ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to bear witness to the Gospel of God’s grace.” Acts 20:24
We can’t only do the “fun” and “nice” things for God, Catholic Pilgrims. To do only that which is fun, is self-serving. We must be willing to deal with discomfort, hardships, and, yes, even persecution all for the sake of God.
Live the Faith boldly and travel well this Tuesday.
