I remember going to Africa joining the Peace Corps. Sierra Leone was the second poorest country in the world. Where I lived in Kamakwie, there was no electricity, no running water and all the conveniences of stores, modern communication and transportation gone. I went from abundance to scarcity in many ways.
But I also found things I never knew existed. It was there in Sierra Leone I started to grapple with addition and recovery. It was there I learned about what things I had taken for granted. Things like food, transportation, entertainment, schools, health care, mail, family, and
so much more.
My decision to go there was faith based. I experienced growth and exposure to many spiritual things as well.
At one point at a very particular difficult time Christ came to life in my midst. A picture of the sacred heart of Jesus hung on my wall, from my grandpa Fortier, and during some prayer and contemplation the eyes of
that picture engaged me. The room became bright, soft and comforting light and warmth embraced me.
The message was clear and simple… Your going to be OK, Just keep going.
It perhaps was the first time I dramatically experienced God is such away.
It came because so much was stripped away. It came because I was in a new environment. It came because of mistakes and failures. It came because God loved me, and my parents raised me in faith and brought me
to the waters of baptism. It happened at a time of turmoil, fear, confusion.
My part was to hold onto faith, pray and listen.
I have had a few such experiences. I admit each time they have come during difficult periods and moments.
Today I encourage all of you to practice your faith, as best you can.
I understand the covid19 virus is not a choice the world has made, like me joining the Peace Corps. But I do firmly believe God never stops reaching out to us in our moments of trial and difficulty.
Sometimes our ability to listen, perceive and experience God is altered during adversity and trial. Today I am asking for you to practice your
faith, and listen and believe God is speaking into this moment and time.
The sermon I linked to below is a small example of trying to tell a huge story of seeing Jesus; but it is a true testimony of recently seeing the face of Jesus, twice in recent weeks.
I certainly do not believe I am unique, or better than anyone else. An so I believe God can touch you as well if you seek the conversation and listen.
Sermon Link to Sunday March 22
Restoring Vision – Sharing what you see
Prayer: God direct our moments in life these days by your Holy Spirit working within and around us. Help us be open to growth, and closed to placing blame, shame and guilt upon others. Help us know you are
present in all things as love, not punishment. Amen.
Have a blessed week
Pr. Rob