February 21, Saturday Weekday

I will praise your name forever, Lord.--Psalm 145:(see 1)

Mass readings: Hebrews 11:1-7 / Mark 9:2-13

Differing Roads to Faith

Today's first reading from Hebrews 11 -- an eloquent praise of faith -- got me thinking about how easily faith comes for me. I can't picture life from any other viewpoint but that's no tribute to me. It's a pure grace that came through my parents and 19 years of Catholic school teachers.

Throughout my adulthood I've found many others with similar backgrounds but occasionally I almost envy those who have struggled with faith. Those who initially found it immensely difficult, but embraced it anyway. I tend to think their struggles have made their faith deeper than mine, which has always begun with, ''Well, of course. What else is there?'' Then I imagine God saying, ''I pave the way for you and you have misgivings about it?'' and I realize the clay has no business questioning the Potter.

Prayer: Father, let me share what You have freely given me.