The Call

For the last few years, I've felt a certain pressure to "figure out my life" or "where I'm going" in life. I promise that the lack of knowledge in that department didn't spring from a "not caring" attitude or not wanting to know... of course I want to know!
I've been so focused on the "path" though, that I managed to lose sight of the one leading me. It is only through His guidance that I've managed to get anywhere. I've relied on myself for far too long, and it is time for me to let go and let Him lead me.
At one of our concerts a few weeks back, we sang "Be Not Afraid" by Carolyn Ray. The text is loosely based on Isaiah 43. These words struck me while I was singing them, and have resonated in me ever since.

Be not afraid, for I have redeemed you.
Be not afraid, I’ve called you by name.
My love for you is everlasting,
My love for you shall have no end.
When you pass through the waters, I will surround you.
When you pass through the floods, they will not sweep o’er.
When you walk through the fire, you will not be consumed.
You are my child, you are so precious to me.

You are my child, and Ill love you always.
Just hold my hand, and Ill lead you home.
When you feel lost, always remember:
I am right here, just call out my name.

When you pass through the waters, I will surround you.
When you pass through the floods, they will not sweep o’er.
When you walk through the fire, you will not be consumed.
You are my child, you are so precious to me.

There is so much comfort to me in this text--not just in how lost I feel at times, but the anxiety of not knowing what is next, what direction I'm going, if I doing the right thing, etc.

I'll leave you with this fantastic Padre Pio quote that also gave me a new perspective on viewing life.

Do not focus so much on the path; keep your eyes fixed on the one who guides you & on the heavenly home to which he is guiding you. -St. Padre Pio