The process of surrendering is often portrayed as a sign of weakness in our day and age.
I think it is fair to say that throughout human existence, surrendering has been viewed as weakness.
A conquering.
A sign that you lost.
You are no longer in control.
Raise the white flag.
However, I think that there is often a perspective or surrendering that is often missed.
A perspective of Hope.
In today’s reflection on the daily gospel reading, we are challenged with this perspective..
“We must keep in mind that what Jesus offers is something that the world does not have and cannot give. Christ has come to put us in right relationship with God and with one another. This restructuring may be upsetting and involve “the sword,” but it’s ultimate goal is peace. And part of this peace comes from knowing that we are not masters of our own life and that our life does not end when our bodies pass away. If we find this new way of looking at life, through Jesus’ eyes, then we will find life and we will find peace.”
Part of this peace comes from knowing that we are not masters of our own life and that our life does not end when our bodies pass away.
Over the last 5 months, we have been constantly challenged with this.
The events of these months have shown us that we are not in control of the world at large.
That is a good thing.
However, these last 5 months have also been brutally awakening for us to realize that the only person we think we are in control of is our own mind and body.
But when reading this, are we even that?
For a person who loves to be in control, this is my greatest challenge.
To recognize that I am not in control.
Even when I do everything right, there are times that the outcome is not favorable.
And guess what…
I have learned to have to be okay with it.
When the author of today’s reflection makes the statement that “Peace comes from knowing that we are not masters of our own life,” it forces me to pause and consider that in relation to everything that is happening in our world.
God is in control.
That is a tough one to surrender to.
Peace comes from knowing this.
Does that mean that we just let events randomly occur because “we aren’t in control.”
No…
The exact opposite in fact.
It means that no matter what action is taking place.
No matter what step you take.
God is in control.
If the outcome is favorable of an action – it was through his will.
If the outcome is less than desirable – it was through his will.
This is what is meant when I say surrendering is a challenge.
It requires us to find God in all things and in all moments regardless of the emotional attachment we have placed on an event.
And if you can remember to do that.
If you can remember to surrender to divine will.
Peace will come to your life.
