The Compass

If there is an off-season in state government, summer of an even-numbered year qualifies. The campaign season is beginning and, to the extent they can, politicians will avoid controversial decisions until after the election.

But that doesn't mean all policy work stops. In both the legislative and executive branches, our leaders are setting the stage for the debates of 2011.

The priests of my childhood will always hold a special place in my heart. Fr. Benson celebrated my first Communion and Fr. Bracke actively guided me through my youth and teen years. With their gentle, quiet manner, these priests shaped my earliest images of holiness.

I do not recall when Fr. Benson was reassigned, but Fr. Bracke was another matter. No doubt the wider community celebrated his departure to Notre Dame with cake and congratulatory cards, but the teens of our parish were completely stunned. Pain and confusion enveloped us. How could the church (that purports to be about love) be so unfair as to take away the one adult who really understood us?

Our family is in full swing of summer activities. So, I think I'll add a bumper sticker to my van that says, "Chauffer." (I do love it though!) As I was dropping off my boys at practice, their inspirational "pump up" song came on. The words in the refrain struck a chord with me. "I'm going to put it all on the line ... 'cause it's my time ... my time. ..."

It clearly reminded me of my calling to do what God asks, without delay. We're given a mission of charity — whether it is in an office, on the road, field and bedside or on the sidewalks praying. It is our time to reawaken our understanding of why we do what we do. Most of us are living out the life that we believe we are called to. What if we took a step back from our existence and questioned if we can do more, be more, live more of a life that God has created for us to live?

Are we here for sunshine or sacrifice? I have to admit it's much easier to hang out on a lounge chair in the sunshine, sipping a cool drink, than to get out of my comfort zone and fight for justice. Yes, much easier. But Catholicism is not a wimpy religion. We are given the moment in the sun, but are called to do something with that moment. We are given windows of opportunity each day to live out our mission as a Christian and to serve, to sacrifice our wants and desires for someone other than self. Jesus is our perfect example of sacrifice of self for others.

Although we may not feel like it or feel as if God is really asking something of us, he is! He asks us to live a vibrant life right at this very moment. The Holy Spirit helps us to live a life that celebrates, defends, protects and serves others. We've got his power. We just have to choose to use it.