Trust and Obey…

I was meditating today on one phrase which Jesus uses when teaching his disciples (and us) to pray: “…Thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven…”.

How is God’s will done in Heaven? Quickly, completely and joyfully, with a willing heart.

I believe that I am not to stress or become anxious as I seek to follow and obey. Rather, I am to trust that the Holy Spirit will show me what to do in each moment, and that I can do this with interior peace. If I miss something or make a mistake, all is well nonetheless, for I am safe in God’s love. As long as I am not rebellious or resisting (an honest examination of my conscience will disclose that…), I am simply to do whatever is in front of me each moment as best as I can given my limitations, frailties and weaknesses. When I fail, or make a mistake, or miss something, I can consider that an opportunity for learning and growth. I can be peaceful and grateful anyway, knowing that mercy and strength are always available through prayer and the Sacraments.

As I faithfully and prayerfully examine my heart, seek always to abide in Jesus, and fulfill the duties of my state in life, I can sing the chorus of an old-time hymn I learned as a child: “Trust and obey; for there’s no other way; to be happy in Jesus but to trust and obey.”