Over the years in RCIA as well as helping with Bible Study I am often
amazed when people share with me that they are not worthy of this or
that. One time when a dear RCIA candidate shared a particularly
difficult time in forgiving herself for a mistake made years earlier she
said something like “God really doesn't like me much.” I remember
words coming out of my mouth and I know they were not my own— I
trust the Holy Spirit gave them to me to speak. I shared that although
none of us are worthy of God’s great love, our God loves us any way
and like an unexpected gift, it’s given unconditionally. We do not
deserve God’s love but according to our scriptures, our God gives it
anyway lavishly and without exception.
On a personal note, I may speak this kind of language when in
ministry but in reality often feel unworthy; so I remember the words of
Mary, “let it be done to me according to your word.” I try to be
faithful like Mary.
Prayer
Mother Mary, our mother in faith, please pray for us your children.
You heard the words of God our creator and your “yes” changed our
world. Your Son inspires us to think of peace instead of violence, to
think of justice instead of selfishness, of love instead of mistrust, and
of our neighbor instead of ourselves. Inspire us to be more like your
Son. Amen
_______
Dawn Ponnet
Director of Faith Formation