Catholic Reflection

Those who had been scattered by the persecution . . . went. . . , preaching the word. (Acts 11:19)

 

There is an adage that says, “God writes straight with crooked lines.” It means that God has a way of accomplishing his plans through—and perhaps despite—the twists and turns of human history. Surely, when a severe persecution arose after the death of Stephen, the first martyr, it looked like a premature and swift end to the Church. How could this band of believers survive such violent opposition?

But the passion and rage of men and women cannot defeat God. As Paul told the Corinthians, had the rulers of Jesus’ day understood God’s wisdom, they would never have crucified Jesus—but they did, and God vindicated Jesus by raising him from the dead (1 Corinthians 2:8). Similarly, though the persecution in Jerusalem was meant to put an end to these upstart followers of Christ, it actually spread the proclamation of the gospel so that “a large number of people was added to the Lord” (Acts 11:24).

The same is true in your life. Twists, turns, and crooked lines are sure to occur. They weren’t in your plans, and some of them may seem to have set you back impossibly. Yet none of them can thwart God’s plan for you. No matter what developments arise in your life, he is infinitely creative and always able to bring about his deepest desires for you. He wants you to serve him now and to live with him forever, and he will do everything to help you get there.

But what can you do when all that you can see is the bend in the road?

Start by reminding yourself as you face that curve: God always has a plan in mind. Hold fast to what you know, despite what you can’t see. Those early believers, though hounded out of Jerusalem, continued to proclaim the good news. In the same way, you can continue to love and serve the Lord, wherever you are, whatever has happened. Cling to the truths you know, even as you wait for God to show you the next steps he has planned for you. As you pray, listen for the Lord’s gentle encouragement. He will help you negotiate all of life’s curves.

“Lord, I can’t see where you’re leading me, but I trust that you will work out your good plan for my life.”

 

 

Psalm 87:1-7
John 10:22-30