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More on Discernment “The spirit
of the Lord is a lantern, searching the hidden
place of our innermost being. We must
remember how near He is… and that no
thought of ours is hidden
from Him.” What does discernment really mean? In simple
words, it means to determine the source of one’s feelings, inspirations,
and the spiritual manifestations that are taking place around the purpose
of determining if these result from a Divine
calling. To discern
if one has a calling is a process. A deacon is not ordained until many
years of preparation. Anytime prior to the date of ordination, the
candidate or his spiritual director may come to the conclusion that the
individual does not have a calling from God. Is God really calling me?
Here are
some basic questions need to be answered: 1.
When you
hear the Word of God, does it make you want to share it with
others? 2.
Do you find
yourself more uplifted when you speak about spiritual things versus what
you do at work? 3.
Do others
enjoy your presence because they are uplifted when hearing you speak of
spiritual things? Or are they turned off? 4.
When you
attend Mass, do you sometimes wish you were there
assisting? 5.
Are seeking
to be a center of attention? 6.
Have you
always wanted to serve the Lord, but you kept it as a secret in your
heart? 7.
Were you
afraid to share that with you wife and children? 8.
Do you feel
unworthy? 9.
Do you like
to serve others? 10.
Have others
told you that you should be a deacon? 11.
Do you have
a natural inclination toward doing charitable works? 12.
Do you
sometimes wish that Jesus would just appear and tell you exactly what He
wants from you? 13.
Has your
mind ever been preoccupied with the fact that you are facing a major
decision regarding your future? 14.
Have you
spoke openly about this decision with your wife, or is she only trying to
make you happy? 15.
How does
your wife feel about “sharing” you with the Church? 16.
Is this a
problem? 17.
Do you know
how to set priorities between family and Church? 18.
Is your
wife involved in the process? 19.
If not,
why? |