Be the Branch: A Post on Vocations

Today's Readings

“To what shall we compare the Kingdom of God, or what parable can we use for it?  It is like a mustard seed that, when it is sown in the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on the earth.  But once it is sown, it springs up and becomes the largest of plants and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the sky can dwell in its shade.” Matthew 4: 30-32

Today I am visiting with the student body of our parish school to help close out Catholic School's Week!  They have had a great five days celebrating all that their school can be for themselves, their families, and their teachers.  One teacher posted on her Facebook page that a student, when asked why she appreciates her teacher, simply wrote, "she always loves us!"  As a student, it must be awesome to know that, along with your family, there are others out there that love you too!  As a teacher, it must be so gratifying to know that you've had this kind of effect on the ones you serve!

Teachers are often hailed as having true vocations, that is, they are truly dedicated to their calling, even if they don't get paid enough!

The Gospel today speaks of the famed "Mustard Seed".  The formula seems to be paradoxical, just like other elements of our story in journeying with God's love.

• From darkness comes light (Gen. 1:1-5).  
• From a flood comes the promise of a rainbow (Gen. 6:1-9:17).  
• From a desert wind comes the breath of God, and His breath of life, lifting dry bones with flesh and blood to give praise and thanksgiving (Ezek. 37: 1-14).  
• From a small David comes the ultimate defense against an evil giant (1 Sam. 17: 41-51).  
• And from a young girl comes the Savior of the world (LK. 1: 26-38)  

Today, it's the smallest of seeds that grows into the largest of branches, providing shade and comfort for the tired sojourner, and a home for those birds flying through for the evening (Mk. 4: 26-34).

We all are called, no matter the circumstance, to live out a vocation that suits our gifts and matches our passion.  We're all called to live life to the fullest (Jn. 10:10), and choose the path that helps us do what God wants us to do.  That's our VOCATION!  So, let's start by saying YES, just like the many amazing people that we call heroes.  

Your "YES" is crucial, but so are the following concepts:

Y.O.L.O.: You only do live once on this earth, so that you can live forever in paradise with God.  We are meant to make the most of our YEARS, learning, mastering and dedicating the gifts we are good at to the greatness of God.  We ARE called to make the most out of this life, so make good choices, and pay attention as you go.  Be open to the God that is walking with you, helping open doors (and shutting a few) here and there, showing you a "more excellent way". (1 Cor. 12:31 - 13:1-13)

ENTHUSIASM: It's true what they say... Enthusiasm is contagious!  When someone is truly passionate and excited about their job, or their role, people take notice, just like the student took notice that her teacher "always loves us".  This is not to say that there are no bad days, or times when the work gets you down.  Every job has its work, but pay attention to your heart, and stay focused on the things that truly make you go WOW!  For the record: Sitting here in the blogosphere is fun for me, and I experience much joy and excitement in these moments!

SACRED SERVICE:  Knowing that all true vocations are called by God, and supported by His love, I would like to ask this: Are we encouraging ourselves, and our children to think about serving on an extreme level?  Coming from my Catholic perspective, are we treating the vocations of priesthood and religious life as viable and real options?  Are we considering the idea that the "big money" job isn't the the only goal in life?  The Church needs servants!  The Church needs priests, deacons, and consecrated nuns and brothers!  The Chirch needs enthusiastic people, leading the way... FULL TIME!  Don't be afraid to listen to this call, and don't be surprised if you find yourself more passionate about these vocations than all the others combined!

It has to be said that all vocations, truly discerned and acted upon, are sacred in their own rite.  But it also has to be noted that the Church would not BE if it were not for those who said YES, and gave their lives, their enthusiasm and their sacred service to the People of God.

A Post Script...

• Parents:  Encourage your son and daughters to truly consider the life of a servant, looking to God in prayer as to what it is He needs from your next generation!  It's scary, and exciting to know that your son or daughter just might need to be a David or a Mary!

• Youth and Individuals:  Be open to the "YESes" of which I speak... You won't be sorry!