Dear Parishioners and Friends,

We usually work to make a living. Sometimes we like what we do, sometimes we are forced to do something we don’t. However, what we do is sometimes our true vocation. That one thing that guides us towards the church, towards God, faith and a profession and actions that are pleasing to God.  It is the openness to God’s decisions that causes us to sacrifice our life and our time for others, for those close to us, and for those we do not yet know.

In the First Book of Kings, we read about the vocation of Elisha who was appointed through Elijah by God Himself. He was appointed to first learn how to live and preach the word of God with Elijah. Elisha went without hesitation, “and became his servant.” (1 Kings 19,21b).

St. Paul teaches us in his Letter to the Galatians about the freedom that Christ has secured for us, but also he warns not to treat this freedom lightly, and make appropriate choices: “You were called to freedom, brothers and sisters. Don’t take this freedom as an opportunity to indulge in your flesh, but on the contrary through love, serve one another” (Ga 5,13) It is our freedom that allows us to accept or reject the call of vocation, but when we reject it, we cannot hold grievances towards God, if we cannot find our true way of life.

So when we hear the words “Follow me!” (Lk 9.59) – as heard by the young man in today’s Gospel – let’s not hesitate with our answer, let’s not look for excuses, but follow the path that Christ shows us.  This could apply to the profession we choose, our way of life or the things we want to do before making a final decision. This moment may never come again, and we will have to live with the conviction of losing our chance for a better, different, proper life.

I want to encourage young people before they make important life decisions regarding their college majors and choosing a profession, to pray for the light of the Holy Spirit. It is so easy to make a mistake that we sometimes pay a high price for. Often, we count on our own wisdom and cleverness but they frequently fail. Only God knows what is good for us. Certainly we should not be guided by financial considerations while making decisions about our career choice and path in life.  The work performed will then be a form of slave labor which does not bring inner joy and satisfaction. I also invite young men to consider the service to God and men in the priesthood of Christ. If you need guidance and counseling, you may contact Fr. Francis M. Bitterman, Director of Vocations at the Archdiocese of Chicago at 1(312)534-8298 or by e-mail:  [email protected]

God, you want to show us our rightful path, allow us to be able to read your intentions so that we may follow the path you have chosen for us.  God Bless!