Dear Friends,

St. Mother Teresa of Kolkata is quoted as saying: “If we really want to pray, we must first learn to listen: for in the silence of the heart, God speaks. And to be able to see that silence, to be able to hear God, we need a clean heart. Let us listen to God, to what He has to say. We cannot speak unless we have listened, unless we have made our connection with God. From the fullness of the heart, the mouth will speak, the mind will think.”

Today’s First Reading from the First Book of Kings (chapter 19) presents a paradox in how it relates the all-powerful God revealing Himself on Mt. Horeb to the great prophet Elijah: “A strong and heavy wind was rending the mountains and crushing rocks before the LORD—but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake—but the LORD was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake there was fire—but the LORD was not in the fire. After the fire there was a tiny whispering sound. When he heard this, Elijah hid his face in his cloak and went and stood at the entrance of the cave.”

The pressing question for inquiring minds, however, is, “Why?” Why does God reveal Himself in silence, in littleness, in humility, which seems so different than what the world thinks best? Why would God communicate with us in a place in which we are not comfortable? If we take the time to get out of our own myopic version of reality and open our minds and hearts to the expanse of the loving design of the Creator … it seems to be obvious. Maybe it is not about me being comfortable or uncomfortable … maybe I’m overthinking it and not realizing the obvious … maybe, just maybe it is simply that God is with us. God is with us and within us … God is with us so closely that He doesn’t have to yell to be heard or create drama for His Presence to be real. Maybe, just maybe He is hugging us closely and whispers into our ear how much He loves us. The next pressing question, if our minds are still in the mood to inquire, is again: “Why?” Why can I not hear His voice? Silence can be a frightening thing, because therein we surrender control of the conversation and the Other may direct us to a place we would rather not go or to a subject we would rather not face. For each of us, however, the “quiet” is both our choice and responsibility; it is our duty and our salvation. Today’s Gospel reminds us that the profound stillness about which we speak does not mean that storms of adversity will not continue to rage or that the waves of doubt and cynicism will not attempt to overwhelm and terrify us still. It is this “stillness” of God’s Presence and the ability to hear His whispering Voice that anchors us profoundly into the very foundation of creation … its holy and loving Creator and our Father.

Jesus’ words to Peter in today’s Gospel are addressed to each of us also: “Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.” Through grace, Jesus beckons us into the deep unknown adventure of life and love. He stands before us with hand outstretched, inviting us to come to Him. This does not happen only when everything is perfect and I have time to think and plan and … whatever. No, it happens right now amid the storm, the rushing winds, the crashing waves, the stress of work, the anxiety of a pandemic, the concerns for our children, the burden of failing relationships … He is not in any of those things; but after the fire a still small voice … the voice of the Good Shepherd calling us gently into the warmth and protection of His fold. The still, small whispering voice that calms our fright, gives confidence to our weakness and assurance to our doubt. It is the voice of a loving parent who gently reminds us of his/her presence and protection, even when we don’t see them. It is the force that scared the bogie-man and monsters away … it is the power that destroys the untruths and illusions of our lives, rather than supporting them and comforting our deceptions. In a word, it is simply, LOVE … pure and selfless LOVE. Do we have the faith to remain focused on Him in the quiet of our being? Or, are we more comfortable being distracted by the noise and chaos around us? Do we have the courage to believe? Do we have the courage to be still, listen, and know that God is with us and that He loves us? Believe me, it is frightening and can be painful, as well, but I beg you, “Be not Afraid and listen for the sound of that gentle whisper of God’s still, small voice … it alone gives hope and peace and instills trust.

Be of good cheer and have a safe and restful week!

Msgr. Grous