Beyond what we could desire

Should anyone have some doubt, little would be lost in trying the journey of prayer, for this journey brings with it the following good: more is given than what is asked for, beyond what we could desire. This is absolutely true. ~ St Teresa of Avila (Way of Perfection 23:6)

I saw these words last week, tweeted by the Carmelites. They speak of the journey of prayer, and growing, deepening relationship, but it occurred to me that they could also speak, more widely and primordially, of our journey with God. And they could speak, too, of the graced paradox which lies at the heart of every religious vocation: more is given than whatever we are asked to give up, far beyond anything we could desire. The hundredfold becomes not a vague abstract, but a promise fulfilled, and poured out on us in abundance: in moments of prayer, and deepening intimacy with God; in mission and community, growth and unfolding... In challenge and stretching, pain, struggle and quiet joy; in welcome grace, and transformation.

Or, as Pope Francis once said: Life is a gift we receive only when we give ourselves away, and our deepest joy comes from saying yes to love, without ifs and buts.

But we have to say YES... not just once, forever, but every day, and in every circumstance. YES to Love's many calls, and to Love's insistence. Because it is that YES which unleashes the hundredfold; which has given me something of that mysterious, indescribable, yet strangely tangible 'more' of God for which I came seeking, and - true to God's lavish fidelity - I continue to find. 

Religious life, like any other vocation, isn't an easy option. It has its ups and downs, its heartbreak alongside its gladness. But, fundamentally, I can say that it's a grand life, which I am privileged to live with and from the Heart of Jesus, and in union with two thousand women around the world. And if I ask you to pray especially today - World Day of Prayer for Vocations - for more women to hear and respond to God's call to the Society, it is that they too may experience the surprising, overwhelming grace and joy of receiving more than they could ever desire.