Faith. By: C.C.

"Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Indeed, by faith our ancestors received approval. By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was made from things that are not visible." (Hebrews 11:1-3)

   Today's readings at Mass had me examine my own heart. I was led to truly think about the ways in which I conduct myself in matters of faith. Am I always assured? Do I live with a sense of conviction at all times? It is a constant work to continually devote ourselves to building a relationship with the Lord and trusting in His ways. It is not something fixed and stagnant,but rather it is constantly in flux as we react and act in accordance to the movements of the events in our lives. 

   It is important to acknowledge through our movements and experiences that God is unchanging, and that his love is presently near to us at all times. His presence, His realness, and His truth does not cease to be true because we waver in our faith. We are called by Him to a relationship; we are called to have faith in things unseen. 

  Through faith we come to a place of understanding that there is something exceeding the capacity and limitations of our human comprehension. If we attempt by intellect alone to seek the heights of God we will find ourselves falling ever so short of reaching this place. Faith demands a simplicity of heart and a total surrender. It demands for us to surrender even our intellect and allow God through faith to reveal His mystery to us. "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen" . In our moments of doubt and difficulty may we turn to the Lord and ask for Him to aid in our clarity. In these times let us say to the Lord "I believe;help my unbelief!" (Mark 9: 24) May we strive to live with this in our hearts so that we may experience on earth the peace and joy that is beyond all understanding until we are truly Home where our treasure is. (C.C.) 

"I believe though I do not comprehend, and I hold by faith what I cannot grasp with the mind." (St. Bernard)