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Show Me the Way

As a child, it was easy for me to erroneously think that there were few things in this life that I couldn’t do. The foolishness of my youth did not escape me as I grew older and into the realization of the many limitations that I face as a person. As I aged, I grew into a dependence on others and then on God to help clarify my perceived ability gaps. I needed both human and divine help in order to respond with integrity to opportunities in which I could or should avail myself. I not only talked to trusted friends, but I learned to hold heart-to-heart conversations with God, reminding God that we were a team and I couldn’t operate on my own.

The decisions that we make in life shape the trajectory of our life. True discernment is tricky and requires a realistic assessment of who we believe ourselves to be, including a recognition of what we perceive as inherent limitations. On the deepest level, it acknowledges dependence upon a loving God who knows us better than we know ourselves…a God whose voice often comes to us in unexpected places.  Prayer is clearly the foundation.

Recently, I was introduced to a prayer that spoke to my heart: “I can’t. You can. Show me the way. I am yours.” The words were credited to Archbishop Oscar Romero from a movie about his life. I have started uttering this simple, yet profound prayer, as I approach various situations in my life…“I can’t. You can. Show me the way. I am yours.” This voiced conviction brings me both confidence and comfort…alone I can’t, but with God, I can best determine a way to go.

I trust that the God of my life, who doesn’t let me down in small matters, will be there for me during significant times. As is my habit, when I approach a decision, I begin with prayer…sometimes simple, other times more in-depth.  I try to keep up my antenna as to how God may be responding to my plea. I seek a trusted friend or spiritual companion to reflect with me to assure that what I believe to be the voice of God is, indeed, God’s voice. I want to be open and allow my God to “show me the way.” 

Have you thought about letting God show you the way?

Sister Nancy Jurecki, OP

Exciting news!  A Sister Reflects is now available as a podcast. Check out the show at the links below or enjoy this English audio version of "Show Me the Way" on Spotify. 

• Amazon Podcasts
• Spotify
• Apple Podcasts