I can clearly recall making my first instrument; I am not talking about the guitar made out rubber bands and a recycled paper towel roll. I chose the design, went to the local Home Depot, convinced the employee that I knew what I was doing when I asked for a PVC pipe, then measured, crafted, and completed what then became an xylophone. It required precision, for every cut produced a different pitch frequency. Uniquely constructed, this small xylophone became a prized possession of mine; It was something I took pride in because I found a way to control its sound and produce my own melody.
In accepting this role as a House of Brigid fellow, I knew I committed to a number of responsibilities that aided and supported the community of the Church of the Annunciation here in Wexford, but I was terrified to start. I thought I did not have what this program calls for: patience, trust, flexibility, vulnerability, etc. If I felt called to be here, why was it difficult to find the confidence I needed? Was I really a good fit for this? How was I supposed to lend my support when I felt this way?
As time has passed, the realization surfaced: I am called to be an instrument of God-it is time to let Him work through the community, my housemates, those in the parish, and through me. God’s grace suffices, and He does not require that I play alone; rather, He is calling me to be instructed. It is possible to make a melody, relying solely on His work.
His melodic gestures have since come in many forms. His grace has been found in beautiful conversations with my parish team and friends who support the program, and the opportunity to listen to people’s stories of personal devotion in their faith. It has been found in witnessing the loyalty displayed in daily mass attendance, and the hospitable, generous hearts of the many people I have encountered. I see Him working through the opportunities to grow through directing the vigil choir, revising a confirmation program that will be implemented in the schools, and in moments of silence. Slowly and steadily, God has been creating a beautiful motif. The best part is that it is never up to my works alone, but the works of my teammates and community, who generously lend their support and guidance each day.
Forming myself into someone who can be an instrument of Christ has been painful and trying, but remains an important exercise for me if I am going to allow God to pour himself through the work I do in Clonard parish.
When we trustingly accept this invitation of joining God’s orchestra, His melody of goodness, compassion, and mercy is released. I am beyond grateful to have this opportunity to continually exercise my will, and surrender to God’s grace so as to let Him orchestrate His works.
With this said, instead of trying to tune and retune myself towards my own melody, I am working on allowing the work of God tune my heart. The moments of grace I have been lucky enough to witness have been far more beautiful than anything I could have imagined.
Keep praying for us over here and know of our appreciation for all your support!
Love, Madeline
