For the gifts and the call of God are irrevocable. Romans 11:29

Walking away is difficult, but it happens every day.  Wives muster up courage to leave abusive husbands. People put toxic friendships behind them. Employees leave companies that reward or accept unethical behavior.  If counseling or dialogue or whistle-blowing doesn't improve the situation, we may be left with no choice except to go. It's different with God.  Just as Paul counseled the Gentiles that God hadn't rejected the Israelites despite their unbelief,so he doesn't reject us no matter how many times we offend him. With God, there is always a choice.  If we are humble and contrite and try harder the next time, his call and his gifts are forever available.

Lord, I am full of gratitude for the gifts you continue to offer despite my frailties'.

Melanie Rigney

For the sake of Jacob, my servant, of Israel my chosen one, I have called you by your name, giving you a title, though you knew me not. — Isaiah 45:4

When a group of professionals posed the question "What does love mean?" to young children, one of the most profound responses they received came from a four-year-old boy. "When someone loves you," he observed, "the way they say your name is different.  You know that your name is safe in their mouth."

Hopefully, we've all had the experience of being beloved and hearing our name uttered with tenderness over and over by someone significant to us. The psalmist challenges us to imagine a God who goes so much further, even though "you knew me not". We may forget to acknowledge God's presence and concern,  but God is continually, unfailingly pouring out loving care for our wholeness and well-being.  Hearing our name called with such absolute and unconditional love invites us into profound gratitude every moment of our lives.

Sr. Chris Koellhoffer, I.H.M.