Coming into the SFC Crossroads Weekend, I couldn’t help but feel kind of nervous because…
ONE – it’s my first time meeting everyone in SFC Israel
TWO – After meeting everyone, I was overwhelmed because they were all much older than I am, seeing I’m turning 23 this year, and a good majority of them were in their late 30’s, and the rest were older than me for sure (I was the youngest!) – and of the four of us, myself and Christian were assigned to SFC (AND THEY’RE ALL SISTERS – with the exception of 2 brothers)
THREE – Taking the above 2 in consideration, I was to give Session 4, which includes an open forum/ panel, and a talk all about vocations!
It was a little shaky at first – it was the phase where some of them were hesitant to talk to us. It might have been because we’re young missionaries. It might also be because we’re foreigners. But it might have also been because they just didn’t know how to approach us. But God never fails to push us harder to grow to become better and better brothers and sisters made in our Father’s image. So despite our discomforts, the four of us pulled out the social card and did our best to talk to everyone.
We stayed up late on the first night, realizing we might have to adjust small details of our sessions, having only about 1 hour of sleep left until the day was to begin. When it came to giving our sessions, I believe the Spirit really opened the door for all of us… As I stood at the front, I realized one thing…
Age doesn’t matter.
Besides from journeying and discerning for our vocations, by the end of the Weekend, we were all reminded that whatever it is, all it takes is the beginning desire for God. That is what will lead us towards our vocations, and that is what drives out the fear in our hearts to do the things we might feel we can’t. I know it is what made me capable to deliver the session… A desire to love God above all else and to be used by Him Who IS Love.
After the Weekend, my fears had disappeared. Although they are older, I am affirmed that we are all treading the same journey… the journey to holiness. and that is a journey that cannot be defined by age. The participants even came up to some of us, asking for one on ones, and telling us to visit their areas, and that they were excited for the next event! PRAISE GOD!!!
I AM SO BLESSED! All I know that in what I have been experiencing, God is continuously molding my heart to just simply love. And because of that, I know that in Him, I can be used so that my life will make Him capable in my journey and the journeys of those around me. All I know is that He is always molding us for something greater. Whether that is Marriage, Single-Blessedness, or Religious Life (Holy Orders), WE ARE BLESSED!
Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us!
Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us!