Say Yes!

“The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.”

Mark Twain

A Sense of Purpose

Living without a clear sense of purpose can indeed be disorienting and disheartening. Purpose serves as a guiding force, providing direction, meaning, and a sense of fulfillment in life. When one feels adrift without a defined purpose, it can lead to a sense of aimlessness, dissatisfaction, and even a feeling of being disconnected from life itself.

But how do we know our purpose? You’ve probably not realized this by now, but the title says it all – say yes to God and His will, daily. The most fulfilling life is that which our will and God’s will are aligned… and God gives us His will gradually and not all at once, otherwise, we will be overwhelmed.

Throughout both the Old Testament and the New, individuals chosen by God exemplify that consistent daily affirmation, saying “yes” to His calling, leads to the unfolding of God’s complete will and purpose for their lives.

Abraham

Abraham’s story in the book of Genesis showcases the power of obedience and saying “yes” to God’s call. When God instructed Abraham to leave his country and go to a land He would show him, Abraham said “yes” and embarked on a journey of faith.

As Abraham continued to say “yes” to God’s leading, even through uncertainties and trials, God gradually revealed His plan. Ultimately, God promised Abraham that through his descendants, all nations would be blessed. Abraham’s obedience and willingness to say “yes” paved the way for the unfolding of God’s covenant and the birth of a nation, illustrating how obedience leads to the revelation of God’s greater purpose.

Moses

Moses’ life portrays the transformative impact of saying “yes” to God, leading to the revelation of God’s will. When God called Moses from the burning bush to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, Moses hesitated. However, after initially questioning God, he ultimately said “yes.”

Through Moses’ obedience and continued “yeses” to God’s instructions, God revealed His will for the liberation of His people. Despite facing numerous challenges, Moses’ obedience culminated in the giving of the Law and the establishment of Israel as a nation, emphasizing how saying “yes” to God’s call reveals His divine plan step by step.

Peter

Peter’s journey with Jesus showcases the transformative power of continual “yeses” to God’s leading. Initially impulsive and outspoken, Peter’s journey began with a simple call from Jesus to follow Him. Despite his doubts and occasional failures, Peter continually said “yes” to being a disciple.

One poignant moment was Peter’s confession of Jesus as the Christ, a pivotal point where Jesus affirmed Peter’s understanding. Despite later faltering, such as when he denied Jesus, Peter’s willingness to follow, learn, and say “yes” led to his growth. After Jesus’ resurrection, Peter played a vital role in the early church as “Al Habayit”, notably preaching on Pentecost, demonstrating the power of his transformed faith.

Paul

Paul’s life epitomizes the gradual revelation of God’s will through obedience. As Saul, he vehemently opposed the early Christians until a transformative encounter with Christ on the road to Damascus. Despite his initial confusion and doubt, Paul said “yes” to Jesus’ call, leading to his conversion.

God didn’t reveal everything immediately to Paul. Instead, through Ananias and others, Paul’s sight was restored, and he was baptized. He began preaching in Damascus and later faced opposition, but his continual “yeses” to God’s leading led him to embrace his role as the Apostle to the Gentiles. His missionary journeys and letters reflect how saying “yes” to God’s guidance shaped his ministry and teachings.

Mary

Mary’s “yes” to God’s extraordinary plan—announced by the angel Gabriel—demonstrates unwavering faith and submission to God’s will. Despite the societal implications and personal uncertainties, Mary responded with complete surrender, saying, “Let it be done to me according to your word.”

Her “yes” paved the way for the Incarnation, the birth of Jesus. Through her obedience, Mary played a pivotal role in the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan for humanity. Her example of profound trust and willingness to be part of God’s divine plan showcases the significance of saying “yes” to God’s call.

When Mary said “Yes” to the message of the angel, she did not really know that the Son of God will be born in a manger… or that days after giving birth, they will have to flee to a foreign land… or maybe even how Jesus will eventually die to redeem us all… and Mary, together with St. Joseph, said Yes, all the way and every time they receive God’s call to the fulfillment of God’s will – our salvation…

Your Will Be Done

The journeys of our forefathers in Faith highlight the importance of continuous obedience and willingness to say “yes” to God’s leading, even when the path seems uncertain or challenging. Each “yes” contributes to spiritual growth, prepares us for greater tasks, and unfolds God’s will more clearly, allowing us to walk in step with His purpose for our lives.

But how do we know that what we are saying “yes” to is God’s will? That is where Discernment comes in… We’ll talk about discernment next time…

Let us continue to pray for one another. May God’s will be done in us.