A Change of Heart

I used to think uncharitably toward C & E Christians – my usual thought was why bother.  I have changed that line of thinking over the years.

First and foremost, imho, this just proves the internal gift that God has given us of that longing and desire for Him.   Whether we suppress it with worldly things the rest of the year or not, Christmas and Easter bring up that longing and the Holy Spirit leads us into action.

Some people who do not want to openly accept this gift reason it away by saying things like “I just want to keep peace in the family”, “the services are so beautiful, I just go for the ‘entertainment'”, etc.  But those of us who have experienced the power of the Holy Spirit know that this is His doing.

Every time a person enters God’s house, is exposed to prayers, and especially partake in prayer this is yet another opportunity for the Holy Spirit to change us – sometimes subtly, sometimes powerfully.

I often feel for Priests at these times.  It cannot be easy to write their homilies (even to the point of whether it should be a homily or a sermon) – I am sure they want to teach and bring home points that everyone but especially these loved ones need to hear – but at the same time to encourage them in their faith.  Some (so I have heard from or read from them) struggle to find the balance between not alienating these dear ones while not just giving a “feel good” homily.

It is not just the Priest (again in my imho) and shouldn’t just be the Priest that can encourage and inspire the C & E’s.  How the congregation acts or responds can be a huge impact.   If the congregation is being attentive, singing with gusto, praying with conviction, not being distracted or socializing especially during Mass (for us Catholics), this can allow the Holy Spirit to inspire them.

I challenge each and every person attending a Christmas “service” this year – If you are a “non-regular”, attend with an open attitude.   If you are a “regular” be cognizant of your own attitude whether or not you have a “non-regular” with you.  You never know who you might inspire or encourage to have a change of heart.