I’m feeling frustrated today. First off I left the laptop that I use to write these daily meditations at home. Then the technology did not work the way I wanted it to. And even that pesky little paper clip that pops up with Word and bangs on the screen chips away at my nerves. The temperature in the office is not right, if I leave the window closed it’s to hot and if I open it it’s to cold. I feel as though I need some therapy.
Reviewing my resources to write this meditation I stumble onto a reflection by Father Ron Rolheiser for Monday of the Third Week of Lent. The title of his reflection is, “Therapy of Public Life.” In part he says:
”More specifically for us Christians: the therapy of public life means the therapy of ecclesial life. We become emotionally well, steadier, less obsessed, less a slave of our own restlessness, by participating fully and healthily within the public life of the Church. Regular Eucharist, regular prayer with others, regular meetings to share faith, and regular duties and responsibilities within ministry not only nurture our spiritual lives, they also keep us sane and steady.”
As I fought with the constraints of this Monday, my cell phone rings. Another distraction, who could this be? It’s the Blood Center and someone was not able to make their appointment to give platelets. They have an opening and she wanted to know if I were available. Yes, I said, just what I needed, some therapy of public life. Making this commitment did not move me into ecclesial life but the act of giving platelets will pull me out of my Monday funk. So this afternoon I will be, “out.” And my cell phone will be off. The spirit gives us just what we need. Thank you!
”Athirst is my soul for the living God. When shall I go and behold the face of God?” (Ps 42:3)