When have you faltered or looked back during your journey of faith?

I almost always have a song in my mind and heart, and today I just can’t help but sing, “I have decided to follow Jesus. I have decided to follow Jesus. I have decided to follow Jesus. No turning back. No turning back.” (Source unknown)

Most writers and presenters have favorite stories or folktales they like to share with others. One of mine involves a pastor who decided to hire a gardener for the poorly kept parish grounds.
 
Year-round, the wizened gardener worked diligently, preparing the soil, weeding, planting, pruning, and nurturing the plants with great attention. One fine day, the pastor strolled out into the flowering wonderland with a neighboring priest, anxious to show off the magnificent new creation.

What could you do to encourage someone who is feeling hurt?

“There is a balm in Gilead to make the wounded whole. There is a balm in Gilead to heal the sin-sick soul” (Traditional Spiritual). I’m humming this to myself this morning as I consider the question. For a balm is something that has a healing, restorative effect.

I’ll be completely honest and admit that one of the things I miss most about celebrating Mass in the church building is watching the children.

If there is anything that will bring a smile to my heart it’s the antics of young children doing what they consider their best to get through an hour of confinement with adults talking at them and no opportunity to talk back.