Lenten Look Back

– offering your pain at the foot of the cross...that much of our growth is in the valleys of life not the peaks. In fact, when I was on a spiritual retreat a monk told me to look for the discomfort in my life so I would examine it and I could grow closer to CHRIST.

Now, in my retirement, I can stand here and tell you my family is strengthen. My wife sees me as the spiritual leader and credits my faith with keeping the family together in its worst storms.

My oldest daughter recently reflected on her past and told me, “...I remember watching you see your little girl stray from God’s path and search for comfort in the devil. You never lost faith but only let your light shine brighter for me to find my way. I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for your love and conviction.” She sees me as a holy man and wants her husband to be like me. Her “prodigal moment” has resulted in her conviction to her faith life and the building of a her own strong Catholic family.

My son actually told me that I bring him closer to GOD and that I am the reason he wanted to be a father someday. He is as “whole” a person as any parent could ask for. He is now the father of two wonderful young babies.

As we all do, painful issues in their lives have allowed me the opportunity to be front and center in my faith to guide them. One of my daughters has an immune disorder that needs daily attention while my youngest has struggled with her own demons that keep me praying for her faith life to grow. My daughters know I’m their earthly father; and love watching the Stooges with me! Seeking humor helps relieve some of life's discomfort.

Life is a daily struggle but much easier with faith. As I continue in my journey, I know my purpose is to show my faith and let others see my “glow”. Struggles will continue until we meet our Father in Heaven. Struggle defines us. It’s in the pits and valleys in life that we often grow closer to our savior. I learned that without my leadership and faith life I would have minimal influence on others close to me and could not model the behavior we all want for our children.

God is good. I know it now. My hope is you do to! Praise be Jesus Christ!