Deepening Our Faith: Food for the Journey
June and July are probably some of the busiest months in a military family’s life. The house is getting packed, school records are being requested, new school registration has started, jobs are changing, farewells are being said. You want to get one last trip in at your favorite spot this assignment before heading out to discover new adventures at the new assignment.
Because of this incredibly busy and stressful time it can be really difficult to find the spiritual strength and connections we need. Our habits in prayer can go out the window because we no longer have what we typically use or now the kids are home all day, or you don’t even have a house! The season of having spiritual support may be at an end because you are saying goodbye to those who prayed with you and challenged you in your faith life.
There is an important constant for us to focus our attention on when we are in a season of upheaval – the Eucharist. This is the horizon we steady our eyes on when life is swaying around us. More importantly, this is our sustenance that gives us life as we journey from one duty station to another.
At Mass during the Solemnity of Corpus Christi, the priest remarked in his homily that we are Israel, journeying through the desert. We have been given Manna. Actually, we have been given something far greater than the manna they received. This is the Bread sent down from Heaven.
What the Body and Blood of Christ is – what the Eucharist is – is our food for the journey.
The Eucharist is not the extra thing that can wait until we are settled. It is not the “fourth item on the list” to make sure we take or give or do.
The Eucharist is what our body and soul craves and needs for survival in the desert of our life on earth.
In her “Little Talks with God,” St. Catherine of Siena writes how a journey with Christ is like crossing a bridge. At the center of the bridge is an inn where we find our rest and nourishment. We would not make it across the bridge if not for this inn.
St. Catherine of Siena clarifies that this inn is actually the Mass, and more specifically, the Eucharist.
When we participate in the Eucharist we actually find rest. We are revitalized. When we make Christ the most important part of our journey He sustains us through any and every season.
As you and your family are closing up one chapter in your life and heading toward the next one, let your eyes remain on the horizon. Keep a firm grasp on that which strengthens you the most.
The Eucharist is your food for the journey and with Christ you will find joy no matter where the military sends you.
In Christ,
Kitty
Director of Formation
Book referenced in piece: *Little Talks with God by St. Catherine of Siena
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