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Reflection on the Solemnity of St. Elijah

 

Some years ago, a priest in his homily said, “Do you feel called to religious life? Be ready to say “OO”. And he expounded – “OO” means Openness and Obedience.

 

St. Elijah taught me the same thing.

 

OPENNESS

Old Testament people were used to see Yahweh in mighty winds, thunders & storms, fire and earthquakes. But how did Elijah saw God in sheer silence?  Was he even surprised to find Him there? Maybe not.  Being a true contemplative, he sees God in all things, and his openness welcomes God in whatever way He chooses to come to him.  God’s presence cannot be controlled or manipulated.  This is truth especially when the soul is plunged in that darkness of His seeming “absence”. Yet by faith, we hold on to the grace of each moment, because that “grace” is God, Himself.  For God is Love, and Love always say, “I am here. Open up.” God is Love, He is love that gives Himself and so we strive to constantly welcome Him.

 

 

OBEDIENCE

Simple, straightforward and challenging counsel – “If the Lord is God, follow Him!” These are my favourite words from Elijah. These words challenge me to walk in the truth by obeying the God whom I claim to worship.  Indeed in obedience, there is so much dying to oneself, but if the Lord I know is a true God, would I dare refuse Him anything?  Or do I make a Lord of myself?  Do I really know and love this God? Because love commands surrender. We too, stand on Mt. Carmel. And each day, this prophet challenges us – “Have you really found God in your life? Then by all means, follow Him!”

 

 

St. Elijah, open and obedient. His “OO” is an authentic “Yes”.

He is our Father, in his spirit; let us renew our “Yes!” to God.

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