Sometimes the Journey Takes a Detour

[Jonathan F. Jones]

When I first started this blog, I was just entering the formation program for the Permanent Diaconate of the Catholic Church. At the time I felt a strong call to be of service to my community and God. I still feel that call, but sometimes the Holy Spirit can lead a person down unknown ways. After going through the evaluation interviews with my wife, I have been asked to take a leave of absence for a year, to spend time in discerning God's will. Needless to say, I am disappointed, and sadden by the turn of events. I am now entering uncharted waters. I recently came across the following prayer on Beliefnet.com:

"Steer the ship of my life, good Lord, to your quiet harbour, where I can be safe from the storms of sin and conflict. Show me the course I should take. Renew in me the gift of discernment, so that I can always see the right direction in which I should go. And give me the strength and the courage to choose the right course, even when the sea is rough and the waves are high, knowing that through enduring hardship and danger in your name we shall find comfort and peace." - Basil of Caesarea (c. 329-379)

I ask that you all keep me in your prayers during this coming year.