Sweetest Lord, make me appreciative of the dignity of my call and its many responsibilities. Never permit me to disgrace it by giving way to coldness, unkindness, or impatience. -St Teresa of Calcutta
We all have the very same calling at our root... to love one another, to include our enemies. Those times when I cling to God, answering that call is not terribly difficult. It's much easier to recognize my father in everyone I see around me. But when I choose to ignore his presence, my ego takes his place. There is where I live in judgement, irritation, frustration, anger, and worry.
But we have a loving father, who is always ready to comfort us and listen to us whenever we need to talk. He doesn't stop bad things from happening, but he's there to engulf us in his love when they do happen, if we're willing to let him.
My most loving father, since you went to the cross for me (and everyone), taking on all our sins, there is NEVER a time that I walk away from you. You've already walked that step. I just choose not to recognize or acknowledge at that moment that I am still in your footsteps. How many times did I do that to my human parents too. But you ALWAYS hear me, even during those times I've turned myself from you. You KNOW me, even when I don't know myself.
May my ego be overwhelmed by your love, that it may be subdued so you exist in my place. May I be your vessel to allow you to help others begin to see themselves the way you see them. Once we do, living our call to love becomes easier. I love you dad!