Joy and Steadfastness
“Count it all joy, my brethren, when you meet various trials, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” (James 1:2-4).
What is Spiritual Direction?
It seems that “joy” and “trials” have little in common, but as people of faith, we understand they are intertwined. God’s love calls us to gladness, as well as to suffering and sacrifice.
Sometimes it’s easy to talk to Jesus about our trials. Other times, we not only struggle to do so, but we also have trouble hearing Him. We want to ask for guidance; we want to be obedient. But maybe we’re not sure how to do this.
Spiritual direction can help us reorient to God. It invites us to open and attune our hearts to His voice so that we might discern how and to what He is calling us.
“Trust in the Lord and He will help you.”
— Prov 20:22
Be Transformed and Renewed
The Lord shows us that the deepest and truest joy comes from uniting with Him. And when we do–when we listen to Him, allow Him to carry us, and when we can see ourselves through His eyes–we are transformed and renewed, made “perfect…complete, lacking in nothing.”
Caravaggio, Supper at Emmaus
To Live Gladly 