Xavier Thelakkatt

          Teresa was thinking of entering the convent to become a nun, but needed an extraordinary sign that God was really calling her to Religious life. It didn’t happen and years went by. Then one morning while praying at the grotto of the Blessed Virgin Mary, she heard a voice “My daughter, why do you delay?” She looked closely at the statue and Mother Mary was in tears. It was indeed a miraculous sign, especially since she was considering the Order called “Daughters of Mary.” Unfortunately the miracle could not be verified since no one else had heard the voice and the “tears” turned out to be morning dew on the statue. Whether it was objectively a miraculous event or not, as far as Teresa was concerned, it was a genuine experience that validated her call.

           The Bible is filled with such God experiences. Abram’s experience of God is an example (Gen 15:5-12) and the transfiguration is another, though more spectacular (Lk 9:28-36). Such an experience could be as breathtaking as transfiguration or as ordinary as a voice during prayer. God continues to manifest himself to people, calling them to particular missions. Such experiences from above come only to the discerning hearts and not to those crowded, noisy and busy. In fact, lent provides us the opportunity to quiet down and discern.

Second Sunday of Lent Gen 15:5-12. 17-18; Phil 3:17-4:1; Lk 9:28-36