Stay Awhile

After a very long Christmas break, my kids went back to school today. While the break was restful, hectic, and enjoyable, it was really nice to get back into the swing of things. I dropped them at school, drove to the upper parking lot, and went into Church.

Have you ever sat in an empty, dimly lit Church? My goodness, the peace. It is quiet, calm, and oh so beautiful. I enjoy the stillness of Adoration and the celebration of Mass. But sitting in the quiet Church has got to be my personal favorite. It’s like sitting with your best friend. Which, I suppose, actually is what you are doing.

In addition to Sunday Mass, I * try * to do something “extra” at least once a week. It might be spending time in Adoration, attending a daily Mass, spending time in Church, or going to Confession. The keyword here is TRY as I am ashamed to admit that during the two weeks of my kids’ Christmas Break from school, I hadn’t done my “extra.” So as I walked through the doors today, I felt ashamed that I hadn’t come to visit Jesus sooner, but also such peace at being back with the Lord.

I walked in and settled into the pew. I closed my eyes and began my internal chat with God…and fidgeted. I recentered myself and went back to my conversation…and squirmed. Refocused my thoughts, and then wriggled again. What was UP with me today? Why couldn’t I settle in and give the Lord my full attention?

I realized then that I still had my winter jacket on. Now, I should mention that in general, I don’t like wearing jackets because while I greatly appreciate the fact that I am fortunate enough to have a warm winter jacket, it is pretty bulky and makes doing things kind of uncomfortable. Like sitting. And, this is certainly not a judgement or criticism on ANYONE who keeps their jacket on in Church. But for me, I couldn’t relax.

I think that by leaving my jacket on, I had unintentionally given my body the signal that this was a “quick stop.” I was going to just run into Church, say a quick hello to God, and continue on my day. But again - NOT my intention!

So, I put my jacket to the side and truly settled in. And it got me thinking. When I visit a friend’s house, I don’t walk in and leave my coat on, ready to leave at a moment’s notice. No, I remove my jacket. Get comfortable. Stay awhile….and that is the EXACT thing that the Lord deserves.