The original title to this post was called the "Joy of Becoming". Ha. But let's be real, this whole process of becoming who we are called to be is definitely not always joyful. Rather it can be rather painful, gut wrenching, peaceful yet turbulent, and stretching. Needless to say, I felt like talking about just the joy was unrealistic and unjust to those of us who find this process really freaking difficult.
What do I mean by becoming? I mean allowing God mold you into the amazing individual who he has planned you to be from all eternity, the process of becoming a saint.
This Journey of holiness- of becoming more and more who I am and was always meant to be is a rough road. It requires us to step out of our comfort zone and forge ahead to the goal. It requires a constant dying to self and obedience to what God asks of us. It requires letting the Lord completely destroy your awesome 5 year plan and accept what he hands you even if you do not understand it. It requires loving others and reminding them what/Who they were made for. It is hard.
But...it is so worth it.
It is hard to see that this process of becoming is worth it. In all honesty, as I wrote that I struggled hard. There are so many times where I resent God for using me without my consent, for moving me around without my consultation and expecting things from me that I feel like someone else is way more qualified to deliver on.
What gives me hope is witnessing the lives of the Saints (So that's how this solemnity fits in?!)
Their lives were full of suffering and hardship but also a deep and profound joy. They gave up everything so that Christ would really live through them. I look at the example of Saints like St John Paul 2 who changed so many lives, who brought hope to so many, and I am filled with hope.
My life is not about me. God's timing is annoying to me. But I also know that in the grand scheme of things my life and yours has a profound purpose. We are called to journey to Heaven, our real home, and bring as many souls as possible with us along the way. No one said it would be easy. In fact, Jesus warns us that it will be hard and difficult.
We are not alone. If today, you like me are resenting God and struggling with the call he has placed on your life because you really don't think you can handle it anymore, take courage! You are not alone. We have a great crowd (multitude) of witnesses who are cheering us on and supporting us. Also know that God loves you so immensely that he desires to make your life a masterpiece. Trust the process. It's ok to squirm and scream along the way- but let God hold you and rest in his heart during the journey. He is not going to leave you desolate.
Take heart, the Victory has been won.
