(We’ll return to the series on Pope Benedict’s theology on Monday)
Epiphany–the day we commemorate the visit of the Magi to the Christ child– is this weekend and that’s caused me to reflect: we made the decision to become Catholic one year ago, while we were at an Epiphany Mass with some friends. In retrospect, it seems like an appropriate feast day to make that kind of move… after 7 long years of searching and seeking, we had finally arrived where the Star of Bethlehem was guiding us.
To be honest, “coming home to Rome” has had its challenges. A lot of protestant friends and acquaintances have made rude or condescending comments, and we’ve lost a few friendships. Our RCIA class was really disappointing and unhelpful. I had to let go of my dream of some day being a pastor–in December of 2011, I had Anglican friends that wanted me to help lead a church plant, and an Anglican organization that wanted to pay my way to go to a national leadership conference– and really struggle with disappointment and wrestle with questions of vocation and calling.
But despite, we’ve had blessings that we wouldn’t trade for the world. The unspeakable joy of receiving Christ Jesus in the Eucharist is more than we could have ever imagined. Catholic spiritual practices such as Adoration and the Rosary have enriched our relationship with the Lord in indescribable ways. We’ve shared the journey with wonderful friends, both local and online, who have encouraged us deeply. A lot of my family members are now finding their way across the Tiber: I have 3 siblings who are currently in RCIA classes, and I couldn’t be more excited for them. There is a completeness and a wholeness to my Christian faith, a sense of being home, that I’ve never had before.
We’re told in Scripture that the Magi came from the East… Coming to visit the Christ child must have been an arduous journey. Traveling long distances was extremely difficult in the ancient world, and they weren’t entirely sure where their destination was. But what else could they do? They had seen His Star…
Grace interrupts. When we see the Star of Bethlehem, we’re called out of our comfortable lives, and brought on new and dangerous adventures. It isn’t easy, but we eventually come to the Child with His mother, Mary, and we fall down at His feet and worship. And as we lay our gifts down before Him, we know that Love was worth the long road…
What a year it must have been! I really get a lot of these struggles, particularly about ministry and finding your place in this strange new world called the Church. It’s hard work sometimes.
Amen
Grace interrupts indeed! As a fellow convert I know that there is little convenience or comfort in becoming Catholic at a human level. You become somewhat of a stranger to many friends, family, and in many ways the foreseeable future. But nothing can replace the peace and joy of knowing the fullness of Christ’s grace and truth through the Church and in the sacraments, especially the Holy Eucharist. Come let us adore him!
I’m a new reader to your blog and I loved this post.
My husband and I are 2012 converts too. “Grace interrupts.” So beautiful and true.
I’m looking forward to reading more!
Thanks so much! I am enjoying reading your blog too. All the best to you and your family!