Today’s quote from Mother Seton reminds me of Pope Leo XIV who, in an informal press conference on the flight home from his first Apostolic Journey, described his spirituality in one simple sentence: “everything is in the hands of God.” A reporter asked him how he felt when he first realized he might be elected pope. He had, as it turns out, been looking forward to retirement. He continued: “I took a deep breath, I said ‘Here we go Lord, you’re in charge and you lead the way’.”
I’m closer to the beginning of my working years than the end, and the idea of retiring and spending my days doing what I want to do and only what I want to do is tempting. However, we are never absolved of our responsibilities to one another, even as our capabilities change over a lifetime. I know so many beautiful examples of those who understand this and are still saying “yes” in retirement; who spend quality time with grandchildren, who meet friends for lunch after volunteer obligations. I think of the empty nesters at the parish where I am Director of Faith Formation, who can dedicate time that younger families can’t. They are building lasting relationships, relying on and being relied upon, and resisting the temptation to keep their distance and do only what they want to do.
We certainly need and deserve our rest, but there’s a danger in thinking we know best how to spend all our time, prioritizing our own comfort, and not trusting God’s presence with us and looking to find God’s presence in others. How often do I waste the time I need to rest, scrolling on my phone, a notoriously unrelaxing and unrestful activity that only simulates genuine connection. How frequently do I plan to attend some event that I had been excited about, but grumble to myself while putting on my coat and getting in the car the day of, “why did I even say I’d go to this?”. Comparing the fruits, I am always nourished to have spent quality time with others, even when a few hours earlier I didn’t want to leave my house.
Teach me your ways, O Lord, and guide me in surrender to your will, in the big yesses like Pope Leo and in the small discomforts. Help me to remain always in communion with others, welcoming and being welcomed by your Body on earth.
