Theresa and I are back from vacation. It's always nice to get out of town and experience new adventures. Sometimes stepping out of the usual routine of things offers a new perspective. I found that when I returned back home my house was just as I had left it, but I feel a wind of change blowing through it.
I have a series called "Vacationing With God" in which I describe my experiences in the different cathedrals I have visited (I have some new entries that will be coming soon.) However, I felt God throughout this entire vacation in so many little ways, that I would like to share these stories as well.
While we were in Virginia, we attended mass in a church not far from where we were staying. It just happened to be there evangelization week called "Everyday Witnessing". The priest gave a good homily telling a few short little stories from his childhood. They were just small moments and experiences with his family that had a big impact on his faith life. He tied all the stories together by saying this, "We all have a story to tell. We need to tell others about our experiences with God. The more we share these stories, the more the Holy Spirit will be present in our lives, and our hearts will catch on fire."
I sat in my pew wondering, "Wow, is this homily written for me? Is this a pep talk from God encouraging me to continue to share my experiences and little stories?" I came to the conclusion that yes this homily was definitely for me, but it was also for everyone else as well. Evangelization is everyone's mission. We all need to inspire each other along the journey. You never know how your words might influence someone. Your small stories may be the spark that sets someone's faith life on fire, or it may rekindle a fire that has almost burned out.
I would like to encourage everyone to start telling their stories. Don't over-think it. Don't worry if it's good enough. It is! Just do it! Tell everyone how God is present is your life. It would be a shame if no one ever knew the beautiful story of you and God.
( If you would like to share your story here, please send it our way! Just hit the "contact us" option and email it to us.)
-Susan
