December 22, 2006
We were at St. Lucy’s Shelter in Jersey City on Tuesday evening, reflecting in our simple prayer meeting on the gifts that Jesus brings when He comes to us at Christmas. I asked those present to think about what gifts we might be able to present to Jesus for His birthday, and I was very moved by their answers.
“Honesty,” one man said.
“Our hearts,” replied another.
“A greater love for God and each other,” a woman chimed in.
One man who hadn’t said anything yet raised his hand and said, “My will.” He went on to explain that in his recent time in prison he came to realize that he had been trying most of his life to tell God what he was going to do for Him and, even though he had determination, he would usually fail. Someone in prison told him that he should surrender his life more to the Lord. Since he began offering the Lord his will each day and asking Him to take control, he noticed a great sense of peace in his life. He specifically noticed that his quick temper, which was what usually got him into trouble, wasn’t controlling him anymore, even in some difficult conflict situations. He was also grateful for how easily someone had helped him to find a decent job, even though he was just out of prison.
I was impressed with the spiritual insight of this homeless man. His demeanor also spoke of a peaceful, trusting confidence in the Lord. I reminded him that there are billionaires who haven’t learned this lesson yet and who are miserable because of it.
The gift of our will is perhaps the most desirable gift we can give to the One who otherwise has everything (and holds everything in being!) As we approach this feast of God’s gift of Himself to us, may we rediscover that He is never outdone in generosity!
Fr. Richard Roemer, CFR
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