By ERIC GIRTEN
THE CATHOLIC KITCHEN
My brothers and sisters in Christ,
It is this time of year when we turn our attention to the harvest of our spring and summer labors. For some, this will be metaphorical – and for others, very literal. Regardless, we can all use this time as an opportunity to reflect on the fruits of our own (Christian) fields. Are our grain houses full, or has our produce died on the vine? Have we given proper homage to God and credit to those workers in the field who brought us such good fortune, or has the shadow of vainglory overshadowed our lands?
Many who are well-intentioned in the morning find themselves with thieves in the evening, and there are some thieves whose supplications ring true to the Master of the lands. The distractions of today are far different than the distractions of the past; but distractions they remain. Constants remain constant despite what you hear; and in the end, there will be a reckoning with the Master. For some, this will be great news; to others, ill news; and to others, no news. It is the same as it has been since the beginning of creation, and each of us has but one simple choice to make. As St. Ignatius of Loyola would put it, under which standard will we stand – that of Christ or that of Lucifer?
When we swat away all of the distractions of this world, it really does come down to that most basic question. With each action, we move closer to one camp or the other until finally, one day, we find ourselves clothed in self-awareness as we stand before the Master. At that moment, I hope each of us will be able to show the vast and deep yields we made for the kingdom of God.
To assist us along the way, our Church, parish and faith communities provide support and care to us so that we might alleviate these distractions in our lives. On Aug. 19-21, there will be an Adult Children of Divorced/Separated Parents retreat at SARTO (https://www.evdio.org/divorce-prevention-and-support.html). On Sept. 17, we will have our fall UNVEILED retreat day for engaged couples (https://www.osvhub.com/evdio/forms/2021-2022-unveiled-retreat-registration); and the Diocese of Evansville sponsors Project Rachel (https://www.evdio.org/project-rachel.html), a post-abortion healing ministry for all of those in need.
There are many ways to move toward the standard of Christ Jesus, but it will always take that first step of faith and trust. I pray you can take it.