Before Mass ended, we had the opportunity to pause and reflect on God’s call in our lives. Fr. Joe Freedy reminded us that we all share a universal vocation: holiness. That vocation is about becoming perfect in love. Additionally, each individual has a particular vocation, which is how God specifically asks that person to live perfect love. A person might be called to the priesthood, religious life, consecrated singlehood, or marriage.
Particular Vocations
Most people are called to the vocation of Marriage. A married couple is meant to be the visible presence of the inner love of the Trinity. We prepare for marriage in purity and chastity, staying close of God in everything we do.
Some men and women are called to Religious Life. In this vocation, a person is called to receive the love of God in a particular way, and to become a witness of the love of Heaven to the world.
The priesthood is the continuation of the Incarnation of Jesus, who primarily comes to us through the Sacraments of the Church. Fr. Joe shared that before his ordination, he heard the Lord asking him, “Will you allow Me to send my Son again in you, as a priest?”
How to Discern
Sr. Karolyn told us that, “Rule #1 is don’t freak out.” Remember, our particular vocations are about love, and there is no fear in love.
Here are some practical steps you can take…
- Pray. As Sr. Karolyn said, “Your job is to listen to the voice of Jesus and learn what that sounds like.” Fr. Joe reminded us that prayer is how we get in shape spiritually. So, just spend time with Jesus.
- Talk to someone. You do not have to discern alone.
- Stay open. It is okay to pay attention to the “maybe” you might feel in your heart. It is okay to discover later that God is calling you a different direction.
- Go on a vocation retreat.
Lastly, keep the context in mind. We are just following Jesus, who is our Good Shepherd, and learning how to love without fear.
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