Where’s Waldo? How many of us have shared this series of books with our children and tried to find Waldo, the bespectacled, bobble-headed man dressed in a red and white shirt, blue pants, and carrying a walking stick among various backdrops. Because the backdrop in which he appears is always different, sometimes young and inexperienced eyes need help in their search. But Waldo is always the same, and discovering him is always a happy accomplishment.
In a sense the search for the presence of God can be similarly challenging. Set against the vast and varied backdrop of the human condition, God’s presence seems elusive and at times even indiscernible. Although we may be intellectually convinced that God is present, it may still be difficult to satisfy our deep desire to experience God. For this reason, God in all love and compassion has sent guides and mentors to move among us, to help us discern the face, touch and handiwork of God by pointing our searching eyes, minds and hearts in the right direction. We call these mentors / guides by different names – prophet, disciple, evangelist, pastor- all are believers whose privilege and responsibility it is to lead us and others to discover God.
Peter, James and John thought they had found their place in life as fishermen. No doubt Isaiah of Jerusalem had the same sense of himself as he served his people as high priest. Paul, too, had known security in his vocation as a Pharisee, with the responsibility to keep his community orthodox and free of heretical elements. But when the presence of God broadened their spiritual horizons, Isaiah and Paul, Peter, James and John realized that their life’s search had only just begun.
Like those who must find Waldo in a new setting on every page, these heroes of our faith were called to discover the plan of God for them in ever new and evolving circumstances. Isaiah, the priest, would also be Isaiah the prophet; Paul, the persecutor, would become Paul the proclaimer of the good news of Jesus; and Peter, James and John would help others navigate the complexity of human experience and find the face of God in the words and works of Jesus Christ. We honor these heroes by continuing their mission. Now it is our turn to help others recognize the face of God.
What are some of the ways we can help others recognize the face of God? The best way is by being good stewards. We have to be out on the front lines as ushers, greeters, lectors, Eucharistic ministers, altar servers, teachers and any other type of ministry that can advance our faith and our community. When others look at us they have to see God’s face in us and then they will be able to see His face in others.
Have a good week,
Deacon Ron
