Isaiah, St. Paul, and St. Peter were profoundly touched by an encounter with Almighty God. Each saw the glory and majesty of God and were filled with awe and fear of the Lord. They were cut to the heart, and realized both God's holiness and their own sinfulness. God touched them, and this touch removed their sins. Thus purified, God called them, and each responded by giving his life to the Lord: "Here I am...send me!" (Is 6:8)
God is creative in the ways He touches us. Peter was a professional fisherman; Jesus touched him on the job (Lk 5:3-11). Paul was actively persecuting Jesus; the Lord touched Paul in the midst of his opposition (Acts 9:1-19). Isaiah was inside the Temple in Jerusalem, presumably worshipping and serving God, when the Lord touched him (Is 6:1ff).
The Lord can touch you at any moment, in any state of life, whether serving Him or opposing Him. Not everyone has such a vivid encounter with Almighty God. Nonetheless, He gives each of us the opportunity to encounter Him in many ways: the Sacraments, the Scriptures, the Church and its Catechism, the Holy Spirit, the Blessed Mother, guardian angels, other Christians, the beauty of creation, and so many more. Therefore, repent deeply. "Seek the Lord while He may be found" (Is 55:6). Open the Bible and read it. Go to Mass, daily if possible. "Seek to serve Him constantly" (Ps 105:4).
| PRAYER: | Lord, may I "turn now ten times the more to seek" You (Bar 4:28). Touch me and convict me of my sinfulness. Grace me to hear and answer Your call. I am totally Yours. |
| PROMISE: | "The Lord will complete what He has done for me." –Ps 138:8 |
| PRAISE: | Praise You, risen Jesus, King of the Universe! Alleluia! |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College