An active spirit

When we are spiritually active, our lives are better and it shows; it is as if we radiate a light that says that we feel more complete and closer to the real source of happiness that is God.

We find many examples of that truth in the church through our saints. Recently, with the election of a new pope and his selection of the name Francis, we were reminded of the life and works of St. Francis of Asisi, a man who made simplicity a virtue. His ideas and example went beyond the borders of our Catholic church and maybe involuntarily, but certainly, he became an icon for the whole world, regardless of their beliefs. Francis was a very spiritual man, whose closeness to Jesus has inspired millions of people throughout the ages, and he is only of of many.

This is what happens when we get close to our God, we reach heights that surpass our views and expectations.

I am not saying it is easy, not at the beginning, because we are too attached to our reality and our material world; changing that requires an effort, but once it is done, we will find that what we obtain is far more valuable than what we had before. Our lives in that stage become simpler, we are only satisfied with God and he exceeds any physical need.

I wish I could reach that stage, however I am not there. I know people who were though. Father Kentenich is one of them, the founder of our beautiful Schoenstatt movement, he was able to get there and with his example inspire millions.

It is not about not having money or possessions, it is about placing the right importance to them. They are part of our world and we can ask God to provide them for us through our dilligent work and efforts, and He will listen and respond.

He will respond in accordance to our faith and the we can dedicate our attention to what is really important: God and the Virgin Mary.