Early Morning Mass

 Going to early morning Mass makes me think about work. That routine of waking up early, getting ready for the day, having breakfast, and trying to get to daily Mass on time all hold special memories. They were busy times, but precious and beautiful of making mass a part of my day, first thing in the morning before the workday officially began, and the sun rose in the sky. 

I recall entering into Mass and prayer in need of all the graces I felt I needed for the day ahead- the little or big annoyances, the struggles, the draining and tiring parts, feeling outgrown or not knowing what's next, feeling misunderstood, and the constant noise to name a few. 

I would often look to the statue of the Holy Family for prayers and guidance. And especially to St. Joseph for guidance and support with job discerning and questioning. And to the Sacred Heart of Jesus image, knowing he would provide all the graces I needed for another day/week of work that at times felt hard, draining and monotonous.

 I was always pleasantly surprised and grateful He came through and gave me the exact graces I needed to pull through and the joy to continue. It always felt in abundance.

This new season will look different. A different feel and schedule as well as scenery, no longer at the same job that once was. However, faith and graces remain the same, and reminding myself of what God has done in the past is helpful for the present. 

It was a distinctive time, a time of surrendering and trusting, and holding onto the faith at what times felt like thin rope or the same old same old, desperately trying to capture a source of inspiration and consolation. However, the light has kept on shining- through the stain glass windows in the church just as He does in our hearts and in our lives amidst the unknown and uncertainty. I continue to walk with faith and trust.