There times on our spiritual journey when we feel the presence of God In a wonderful way. It could be on a retreat. It could be on seeing a beautiful sunrise or sunset. It could be in a meditation upon receive the Eucharist. At these times the love of God is poured into our hearts. God might have a special message for us or may request us to perform a certain task. During a time of our openness to God in this experience, we might be able to say with St. Paul, “It is not I that live but Christ who lives in me.”
Then there are times when God seems absent. It could happen when we are experience a failure of some sort. It could happen when things did not turn out the way we had planned. It could be when we have the feeling of being manipulate or when are confused about what decision we should be making. It could happen when a friend has not responded in the way we had hoped.
In many situations this can lead to feelings of consolation or desolation. It is our faith and trust in God that we can help us to live through the hard times and have hope that God is still with us and not abandoned us. Until once again his presence will return helping us understand why the feelings of desolation had a purpose of making us stronger as we travel our spiritual journey. Think of the apostles huddled in the upper room after the crucifixion before the resurrected Jesus appeared to them.
- What are some times when you have felt God’s presence?
- What are some times when you had feelings of desolation at God’s absence?
- How has feelings of desolation turned into consolation in your experience of God?
O God, whether in consolation or desolation help me trust in you.