Daily Reflection
June 22nd, 2005
by

Jeanne Schuler

Philosophy Department
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Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18
Psalm 105:1-2, 3-4, 6-7, 8-9
Matthew 7:15-20

Often, faith is seen as an exotic power. Like singing on key, it is a gift given to the fortunate few, but not to ordinary folks. Maybe I was dealt out. Maybe later things will change.

But waiting for faith is like waiting for my prince to knock at the front door. It’s not about waiting.

Abram listened to his dream. He said what was on his mind. He objected: how can I “fear not”? There is so much to regret. My heart is broken. Sarah and I have left no child. At death we will disappear without a remainder.

Abram hearkened to the unseen God. He sacrificed. He entered into a covenant. He trusted. But whom do I trust? Why gaze at the night sky? There is no time for fleeting dreams. I am a person of many cares. When my troubles end, then I will listen. Then I will take comfort in the field of stars.

Pascal urges us to bet on God. But trust does not arise from calculation. So Pascal continues: if your heart is empty, follow in the steps of believers. Gradually doubts recede as God’s reality seeps in.

John Kavanaugh, S. J., describes the five moves of faith. Live more simply, so the focus on “more, more, more” eases. Enter into a circle of friends who regularly share their lives as community. Pray daily or seek solitude to emerge from busyness as an intact self. Take action in a cause of justice and persevere through the years. Finally, be present to those persons on the margins; their visible brokenness breaks the spell of perfection. As I remember who I am, I come closer to God.

Somewhere along the way confusion lessens. I hear my name spoken in the darkness. You remember me.

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