Now What? This seems to be the burning question when returning from a mission or any short/long-term volunteer experience. My heart and soul were touched beyond words and as I take the time to sit with this experience and remember the people I walked with these past two weeks—I can see and hear laughter, smiles, cries, and playfulness; tiredness, helpfulness, steadfast energy, and worry—the full spectrum of frustration to joy! As these thoughts abound in my head, I’m lead to the scripture passage of Easter Monday from John 20:15, “Jesus said to her, “Women why are you weeping? Whom are you looking for?”
When serving and fully immersed in a mission, I can feel the Holy Spirit present and working in and through the people, we are with—volunteers and those whom we serve. I have come to feel the closest to God when with people in most need. Serving during this time of Holy Week, felt holier than being inside a church—this was church! Washing the feet of guests and having my feet washed by guests and other volunteers, was extremely humbling and holy. Serving meals, mopping floors, cleaning cots, washing bedding, dispensing basic hygiene needs and medicine, preparing bags for travel, playing ball, holding babies, communicating through language barriers……were all very holy moments.
Now, as I sit at home after this profound experience, asking God, “Now What?” What do I do with this longing to do more? In a world and country that is so divided and so quick to judge others for their faults, opinions, beliefs, lifestyles, looks, choices, the color of their skin, and on and on—my deepest desire is simply to walk this life with many people who are different than me yet find our commonality; to go where God leads me and treat all with dignity and respect; to serve alongside others and show love, compassion, and joy!
Back to Jesus’ question, as related to me:
“Ellen, why are you weeping? I am weeping because I have loved.
“Ellen, whom are you looking for?” I am looking for Christ in every encounter!
Beautiful and moving reflection, Ellen. I so loved sharing this experience with you, and am so grateful for your model and guidance in my life! So much love!
A beautiful reflection which moved me. Than you, Ellen!
Come and join as an SCN you’ll have many more such joyful moments serving others!
Listening to your experience, I have more than been to church!
I’m full of gratitude for your openness to God-at-work in you….. come and continue to explore our SCN way of life.
Ellen, thank you for the simplicity and profundity of your shared reflections. May you continue to move forward with confidence that Love will lead you.
Ellen,
Your time at the shelter are powerful, life forming moments in your life journey. As you discern what to do next, remember the words of St. Vincent, “Do whatever is before you. Love is inventive unto infinity. “Thank you for your heartfelt sharing.
Powerful! Thank you for sharing your experience. “… and she pondered all these things in her heart.” You are in good company.