The following story took place early this afternoon. If I hadn't already absolutely fallen in love with Jesus before, I would have without question just a few hours ago.
What happened absolutely charmed me beyond measure.
After making a Holy Hour during Eucharistic Exposition and Adoration early this morning, then assisting at the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, followed by an appointment and then lunch, I returned to the church to work on a special assignment from the Lord.
Since the noon Holy Mass was still being celebrated in the church, I went to the chapel to work on some writing before the Blessed Sacrament.
There were a few other people in the chapel; several women with small children listened to and participated in the Holy Mass which was being celebrated next door in the church. I sat down in the back row on the left side of the chapel. Also in the back row, way to the right, sat a young man. He stared straight ahead; it looked like he was waiting.
While working, I remained mindful of the Sacred Mysteries unfolding next door, and paused during the Consecration and later during the final blessing. When people exchanged the sign of peace, I looked up from my writing and smiled at the people around me. Everyone in the chapel exchanged greetings with the exception of the young man. He remained in the same position, staring straight ahead.After Holy Mass ended, I became completely engrossed in my work, for there was just a little time left to work on it.
At some point, the Lord pointed out that the young man had gone into the confessional. I hadn't seen that happen because I was typing, so I wasn't quite convinced that's where the man was.
The Lord asked for prayers for that young man, and also for his confessor. So, I prayed to God, and also asked for Blessed Mother's intercession. Then, the Lord had me use a different, and very special weapon.
He had me fire "Golden Arrows" for that man, straight at the Sacred Heart of Jesus!
What a powerful moment that was, to witness our incomprehensibly loving and merciful Creator make use of His instruments to extend every care to His beloved creation. What courage that man showed by going to confession, and what love! What love and devotion the shepherd, his confessor, showed to this vital member of his flock. How interconnected we all are! God planned it that way. How phenomenal that the Lord uses us as co-conspirators in the salvation of one another!
I was absolutely delighted to have been summoned by God to be a part of something so very beautiful, and intimate, as that man's reconciling himself with God. At the Lord's request, I launched Golden Arrows, one after another, right into the Sacred Heart of our Savior!
The experience was so meaningful. So, so meaningful. Everything about being profoundly Catholic is extraordinarily meaningful. I was mindful of all the people the Lord summoned to pray for me, and how much their cooperation with grace has meant to my life, my mission, and my eternal welfare.
I admit that at one point, I took a good look around and wasn't quite convinced that the man had gone into the confessional. There was no way to know for sure just by looking. During regular confession times, there is a green or red light on over the confessional doors to let those waiting know if the confessional is available or occupied. At that time of the day, confessions are not normally heard, so no lights were on over any doors.I began to doubt that the man was in the confessional. Trusting in the Lord more than myself, I launched more Golden Arrows, and then went back to my work.
Nothing happened.
I must have been mistaken, I thought to myself while working.
How awesome it would be, though, if that was really happening and the Lord was asking other people to pray for the man and his confessor while they were in there!
Time passed, and then after a while more, I heard two male voices in the chapel. Although I didn't look up, the voices came from the confessional and they were heading toward the back exit doors.
How much God loves every single one of us. His love and mercy are available to each person, any time, all the time.All we have to do is accept them.
Listen for the Lord's summons in your life. They aren't always big, life changing events, at least not always to us. Sometimes we are used as His instruments for brief moments, significant moments, loving moments, charming moments, and life-changing moments.
Sweet and gentle Jesus, if I hadn't already given You my heart, You would have had it for sure today. How compassionate You are, how generous, how caring, how forgiving.
I renew my vow and give myself entirely to You, and promise to love and honor You all the days of my life.
