How do we know that we are following God’s will? Are we following the well-trodden path of those who have come before, or are we embarking on our own journey, clearing away bramble and rubble because we feel drawn to venture beyond what we can see? Do we choose the career and life that appears to be the clearest and most comfortable choice, or do we dare to desire the dreams that God has destined for us?
After finishing my master’s degree at the University of Denver, I believed that I understood God's will for me. I planned to work as a music educator, composer, and director in a specific area of the country. After long months of searching for work, I came up empty. I was forced to wonder, “Am I still following God’s will for me, or have I lost sight of where He is guiding me?”
I was sitting in the Adoration Chapel at my home parish when it hit me. I happened upon this reflection by St. Robert Bellarmine: “You have been created for the glory of God and your own eternal salvation.” In that moment I prayed to God, remembering that all I do, have done, and will do is for His glory. I then wrote in my journal every thought, action, and desire I had. If I could add the clause “for the greater glory of God” afterwards, I completed the sentence in my journal.
I love my family . . . for the greater glory of God.
I pour my passion into music . . . for the greater glory of God.
I want to pursue a career in music ministry . . . for the greater glory of God.
There it was. Music ministry! Back in high school, I had felt called to serve with music in a church setting. While attending the University of Portland I harnessed and honed that desire, and began exploring it professionally while in Denver. This revelation elevated my spirit and drew me closer to God in that moment.
God wasn’t just calling me to rethink my career, but also to relocate to New England, an entirely new region of the country for me. I currently am a Director of Collaborative Music for The Christ Initiative, a community of two parishes in Massachusetts. One month in, I have already begun to experience fulfillment. God’s love surrounds me every day, and I know in my heart that this is His will for me.
Reflection by David Wanner '16
