Waiting For One Another

In writing to the Corinthians about protocol at the Eucharist, St. Paul writes, "...when you come together to eat, wait for one another." (1 Cor 11:33).  This admonishment is out of courtesy and respect, and it applies beyond just attendance at the Eucharist.  Many of our college age, and even high school students, "are not there yet" regarding their faith, there understanding of God, and certainly of the richness found in the Eucharist.  The tendency is to want to push them into what we know and love, but for some, it's this kind of pushing that has, unfortunately, pushed them away.  It takes gentle love, consistent prayer, patience and lots of waiting.  I had a conversation with a college freshman last night whose concept of God is nil, stemming back to the lack of education and Catholic atmosphere in his family. Yet, he is very open, with an inquiring mind, and leading such a good, mature set of values already, that it's just a matter of time that he will connect the dots and enter into a relationship with the God who created him thus and who loves him to death.  I know I can witness to this young man, based on our relationship, and with trusting and faith-filled prayer, accompany him along the path which he said he is willing to take.  Billy Mills, who won the 10K gold in the 1964 Olympics and gives motivational talks today, speaks about the power of repeating, Believe, Believe, Believe, and envisioning in the imagination the desired outcome.  It worked for him: he saw himself crossing the finish line in first place, just as it happend in reality.  So too, to do I envision this young man being confirmed.  We all have such people in our lives.  Let us wait for them while believing and envisioning.
Bro. Rene