In seeking God, the highest expression of selflessness is precisely the ability to endure one’s ups and downs, while still believing that God’s grace and the Holy Spirit are continually at work and that God’s life and heavenly grace are truly strengthening within us. It is a humbling process, as we constantly experience our own weakness and misery. It requires great courage.
Neither Mary nor Joseph were spared the painful search: “Behold, your father and I have sought you sorrowing.” A Christian can only find Christ if they seek Him with sincerity and perseverance. Our searching usually begins “among acquaintances and relatives,” that is, where we are familiar. Ultimately, one will be directed to the Father and to what is “His.” And one will find Jesus in the place where they have fully given themselves.
(Mary David Totah, OSB /1957–2017/, Joy in God)
