Day 4, Chapter 4: The Art of Discernment

 “Discernment is the ability to perceive God’s work and to respond to it with enthusiasm and joy.”

 (Page 71)

This chapter/article is one that I could visit over and over again as a person’s discernment is never complete. As we go through each phase of life we discern new challenges. Yet but because of our baptism and the graces we received we can remain grounded to our call; that which brings the most energy and satisfaction to our lives. I especially appreciated the description of the five calls we are given. While it is impossible to pull out only one or two key points (it really is that good of an article!) I will name some of my favorite points...those which had me thinking deeper about my own discernment.

Discerning maturity: “We are all in the process of “becoming.” Whether we are growing in love and knowledge is a crucial discernment question.” (Page 64)

Discerning Holiness:  “Holiness is to live in the light of God’s love, before his face.” (Page 65). I am challenged to read, Therese’s (St. Therese of Lisieux) Story of a Soul.

Discerning Community: “We need one another if our minds and hearts are to be truly Christian. It is in community that we are affirmed and challenged, supported and confronted. …God gives us one another so that together we might advance in the way of his kingdom.” (Page 67)

Discerning Service: “Service or ministry essentially involves two reciprocal elements: identifying needs and naming gifts. …The challenge in this fourth baptismal call is to identify our gifts. …when are you happiest and most alive?” (Page 67)

Discerning Generosity: “Generosity is the Christian way of life flowing out of a sense of being gifted and grounded in an attitude of gratitude.” “Discernment leads us to recognize that God wants us to be not only recipients of his blessings but also transmitters of his grace.” (Page 68) 

Reflection Questions:
1. Bishop Robert Morneau names several Mentors of Discernment, do you have a mentor that you would add to this list?

2. Have you had a significant life experience that shaped the person you are today?

3. What makes you most alive or happiest in life?

Virtue and Vocation

It is always helpful to hear why others have chosen to do (or not do) something that you are considering for yourself. Global Sisters Report strikes again this week with a gorgeous reflection from Sister Susan Rose Francois on the call we all share to become more virtuous and her call in particular to become a sister. Well worth reading slowly and prayerfully! You can find the article here.

Day 6: Secondary Characters

"The Englishman shook the boy: "Come on, ask her!" 

The boy stepped closer to the girl, and when she smiled, he did the same."

One of the things that I find most fascinating about The Alchemist is the enormous role in shaping the story that Coelho gives to his rich cast of secondary characters. Each of these people comes into Santiago's life, some for brief interactions and some in permanent ways, all with their own unique perspective and personal philosophy. It is in conversation with these other people about their world view that Santiago begins to understand more clearly how he sees the world and how he feels called to be in the world. Without the other characters, Santiago may have never found the most valuable part of his treasure: his vocation and identity. 

Which one of the secondary characters do you most identify with? Which of them do you think has the greatest impact on Santiago and his evolving sense of self?

Who are the most important secondary characters in your journey thus far? In what ways have they helped to shape your experience and your sense of yourself? Whose life do you play an important supporting role in?