St. Mother Teresa
“We need to find God, and he can not be found in noise and restlessness. God is the friend of silence. See how nature-trees, flowers, grass- grows in silence; see the stars, the moon and the sun, how they move in silence…. we need silence to be able to touch souls.”
St. Mother Teresa
In our quest to seek God, we must seek the solace of silence as He resides within its peaceful embrace. It is amidst the quiet that we find our connection with the Divine. The world around us is filled with noise. I mean the noise of commercialism, social media, politics, indifference, prejudice you get what I mean. Within the din we often forget about God. Often times the noises around us take over the heart . Where is God?
Mother Teresa was a saint of our times.
But first, Fr Brian Kolodiejchuk said, she is a “modern” saint as she lived the same circumstances that we do, while her popularity is such that she is known by men and women of all faiths across the globe.
“Not since Saint Francis of Assisi has there been a saint that had such a wide echo beyond the Church”, he noted, pointing out that during her lifetime Mother Teresa received the Nobel Peace Prize and numerous other Awards and recognitions taking her fame “well beyond the Church” (Vatican News,Linda Bordoni).
How do we achieve this sense of shutting out the world around us? Personally, when I keep myself occupied with various tasks, quieting my mind becomes a challenge. Even during moments like attending mass, if my concentration falters, my thoughts stray towards my never-ending to-do list. This tendency can lead to frustration. Reflecting on St. Teresa’s words, it becomes clear that the primary purpose of the elements she mentions is simple - they exist. From the earth to the sky, they stay true to their essence, fulfilling the purpose that God intended for them.
The Lord manifested His presence in a gentle whisper, a soft but powerful expression of His divine might. Clad in gentleness, God chose to communicate His strength through the simplicity of a whisper, which is the embodiment of His word. Calling out to Elijah in a tender whisper, the Lord repeated his name softly, guiding Elijah to focus intently in order to discern and heed God's voice. (1 Kings, CHAPTER 19)
What can we learn from St. Mother Teresa? God is constantly speaking to us, directing us, and guiding us along our journey in life. It is crucial to be open to the realization that God might speak to us in unexpected ways as well. This is why it is essential for us to make a conscious effort to slow down our busy lives, creating space for stillness, so that we can truly listen for His divine voice among the noise of the world.
Keep at it! Keep praying. Love the Lord.
Peace and Grace.
