Vincentian prayer and fast - What's in it for me?
Vincentian prayer and fast – What’s in it for me?
Lynn L’Heureux writes in her weeklly reflection… What’s in it for me? It is a question that many think and often do not say out loud. When I am training new members, the question I ask is, “Why do you want to serve the poor?” Inevitably people will say, “It makes me feel good!” Yes it does, but that is not a reason to serve.
Read the full reflection which follows.
Vincentian Day of Prayer and Fast, Tuesday, October 1, 2013
What’s in it for me? God of Tender Love – Smiles Change the World – More than one Way.
Dear Vincentian brothers and sisters: So many things have happened in the past week. There are so many natural disasters and human disasters around the world. We as Vincentians must pray always. Every second you pray for peace and thanksgiving is heard by God. God is always there. One of you sent me this prayer: “Lord, I love you and need you. Come into my heart and bless me, my family, my home and my friends and all those you place before me. I am called to serve and I thank you for this opportunity in Jesus’ name. Amen”. Pray for one another.
What’s in it for me? It is a question that many think and often do not say out loud. When I am training new members, the question I ask is, “Why do you want to serve the poor?” Inevitably people will say, “It makes me feel good!” Yes it does, but that is not a reason to serve. I am very sure Mary had many happy moments after saying, “Yes” to God, but I am also convinced there were some very sad moments. We, like Mary do not know what God has in His plans for us. We need to follow with confidence and faith and know His grace will move us. Sometimes it seems like a simple faith and we “Just do it” without questioning. We pray and continue on our simple day to day faith which will expose Our Saviour to the world through our service. We say, “Yes” and our hearts become open and we give the love and joy we received to all those who are placed before us. We are a witness to Christ and our Faith allows us to cry, unashamed, when things are wrong. We know He has a plan and His will be done. What is in it for us? A life everlasting connection and an intimate relationship with a God who never leaves us and forgives us everything – this is our reward.
God of Tender Love – The love of God is forever! His love, tender mercy and grace are inexhaustible. This isn’t a onetime thing or an “Ah Ha” moment. It is a constant permanent gift to us. Our attitude and state of mind will be transformed. We will live in Him and continue our pilgrimage to Eternal life while saving others along the way. Whatever God does, He does beautifully and perfectly. God doesn’t have another way of doing things. This tender love is the only way. St. Catherine of Genoa says, “Keep Jesus in your heart! Eternity in your mind! The will of God in all your actions! But above all, love, God’s love, entire love!” St. Thomas of Villanova says, “If you want God to hear your prayers, hear the voice of the poor.” In addition he tells us if we wish God to anticipate our wants, we should provide those of the needy before they even ask us. This reminds me of my grandmother telling me if I really want something, pray to God that someone else receives it and be happy when they do.
Smiles Change the World – Smiling at a stranger is a silent prayer and could change the life of the stranger. Did you ever notice how a smile makes you feel? I’m guessing it makes you feel good. I always told my kids and my students, a smile was a perfect prayer. Sometimes we would do a staring exercise where we would try to make the other person smile. When you smile you tell someone it is a good day. St. Vincent taught those serving the poor to smile so the poor would forgive them for the help they brought to the door. Let others know your love of God through your smile and in your voice and by the way, if you are on the phone line ensure you always smile as the caller will feel your smile in your voice. Let your smile change the world, but never let the world change your smile.
Saint Vincent Feast Sept. 27. While helping my grandson with his homework, I noticed in his day timer a story about St. Vincent de Paul. You may have heard it, I had not. It seems Vincent was once arrested because his roommate accused him of theft. Vincent maintained his innocence. A few months later, the real thief confessed. Vincent was falsely accused. His roommate asked for forgiveness as he apologized. Vincent forgave. My 7 year old grandson questioned the story and came to the conclusion that even today we must forgive, because Jesus always forgives. From the mouths of babes! I hope your feast day was memorable.
Remember to visit www.famvin.org/en . You will be amazed and enlightened by the many stories, reflections, videos and sharing of info on this site. We are truly blessed to have this site. Warning, it does keep you riveted for a long time. You will be better for the experience.
Blessings,
Lynn
Lynn L’Heureux is Special needs co-coordinator & Advisor of the Society of St Vincent de Paul Calgary Alberta Canada
Subscribe to her weekly newsletter Vincentian Day of Prayer and Fast (English and Spanish) by sending an email to calgaryssvpadm@gmail.com
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