Feast of Saint Simon Stock

Good morning. One of life’s early lessons in being married is that everything is not within our control. We learn early that not everything will be as we expect it to be. The chasm between what we thought or expected things to be and how it actually unfolds can prove to be quite a challenge and lead to much disappointment and frustration. The problem essentially unfolds from thinking that everything belongs to us and that we in some way are in control of it all. The truth be known as today’s Gospel notes, life came from God, belongs to God, and eventually goes back to God. That is the way it is and thinking otherwise will only lead to frustration. 

Make no mistake about it; things unfold in God’s way and in God’s time. Most of us who have been married for any length of time come to realize that God is truly the One in control. We delude ourselves into thinking we in some way have ownership and authority over the things which make up our lives and our time together. We have great plans, and just as we think we are at the top of our game. Bam! Plans change, life changes. The truth be known, it is when we come to realize that God is truly in control that we come to appreciate a sense of control and freedom that only can be found in learning to let go. Saint Simon, whose life we commemorate today offers us an example of the importance of relying upon divine providence in our lives. 

First, we need to open ourselves up to listen and to allow ourselves to be guided and directed by Him, it will all unfold in His time, not ours. Just as we desire the best for each other, so too God desires this for us as well. Our love for each other is a reflection of God’s love for us, and He will not abandon us. As Linda and I reflect back over the challenges we have encountered in our thirty-one years together, we have come to know and appreciate that we did not get to where we are on our own; it was God helping us, guiding us along the way that enabled us to see our way through. It is our faith in God, our commitment to each other, and learning to be grateful for what we have which has made all the difference. It basically falls down to being grateful and learning to give ourselves away in love that leads to joy and happiness together. So, let go, and come to know and feel the joy that comes from letting go. Make a great day! 

Today we recall the good life, gifts, and work of Saint Simon Stock.