In a Subtle yet Powerful Manner

St Andrew's Abbey (Photo Credit: Me)

We all have our own desert-like experiences in life. I am not talking about actually going to the desert, see its landscape and experience its weather. I am talking about the moments when we feel empty and lost. By "desert-like experience of life," I am referring to the times when we are going around in life thirsting and longing for refreshment and rest. It feels like a desert  because no matter which way we turn to, everything seems dead, dry and unable to produce anything good.

In 2018, the search for God took me to this oasis in the Mojave Desert called, San Andrew's Abbey. Even though I had expectations on how God would speak to me, God chose to communicate in the most subtle manner. There, as I walked to the cemetery to pray and meditate, these flowers were a sign of God's love. I thought to myself,  "These simple flowers make the journey more pleasant, enjoyable and bearable." Through this gesture, I was reminded that no matter how dry and empty my life seemed to be, peace and fulfillment were not far away from my reach. I understood that nothing is impossible for God, and there is no emptiness and no dryness that can't be touched by God's power and love.

Today I say to you:

Do not lose hope. God will speak to you in the spiritual and/or emotional desert you are crossing. God is an expert in bringing life, love, security, rest and direction in the most unexpected and troubled places and situations. Keep yours open, and God will surely show you that you're not alone.