One of the most important things every Christian should pursue is growing closer to Jesus. Just as we continually invest in our relationship with our spouse, we should also strive to deepen our relationship with Him each day. One of the best ways to strengthen any relationship is to be on the same page.
It’s beautiful to watch couples who have been married for many years interact with each other and with others. They often share the same mannerisms, think similarly, and even finish each other’s sentences. We should aim to develop that same kind of closeness in our relationship with Jesus.
When I was single, I focused mostly on my own needs and wants. After I got married, I had to consider my spouse’s needs and desires as well. We don’t always think alike, but we work to find common ground. When a husband and wife hold different opinions or desires, it can strain the relationship.
Many times in my life, I have begged God for something and didn’t receive it. I asked but did not receive; sought but did not find; knocked, and the door did not open. We shouldn’t interpret this as a lack of love from Jesus, but rather recognize that He may have a different plan. If we truly believe that God is all-knowing, then we should trust that He leads us on the right path. We may not understand every bump and turn along the way, but what matters most is trusting that Jesus is guiding us to Him.
I think of the song “Unanswered Prayers” by Garth Brooks. Many times, we believe we know what we want, and when we don’t get it, we grow frustrated. But how often do we look back and thank God for not answering a prayer because something better came along later?
It’s natural to feel frustrated when things don’t go our way. We all create a plan for our lives, and while planning is good, we must remain open to change. We need to align ourselves with God so we can live in union with Him. We can do this through prayer, meditation, and especially through receiving or adoring the Blessed Sacrament. I often sense Him gently guiding me in certain directions.
As we grow closer to God, we begin to resemble that long-married couple who think alike and share the same mannerisms. When we walk with God, we can trust that we will never be lost. The road may still be difficult, but it becomes much more bearable when our true love walks beside us.
