Weekly MESSAGE for August 12, 2007: God Said No!

August 9, 2007

Focus: God said no!

Dear Friend,

A parishioner sent me the following.

I must admit I have never heard God say, “No!”

I hope you are enjoying these final weeks of summer.

Fondly,
Father Nick Amato


God Said NO!

I asked God to take away my habit.
God said, No.
It is not for me to take away, but for you to give it up.

I asked God to make my handicapped child whole.
God said, No.
His spirit is whole; his body is only temporary.

I asked God to grant me patience.
God said, No.
Patience is a byproduct of tribulations; it isn’t granted, it is learned.

I asked God to give me happiness.
God said, No.
I give you blessings; happiness is up to you.

I asked God to spare me pain.
God said, No.
Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me.

I asked God to make my spirit grow.
God said, No.
You must grow on your own, but I will prune you to make you fruitful.

I asked God for all things that I might enjoy life.
God said, No.
I will give you life, so that you may enjoy all things.

I asked God to help me love others, as much as he loves me.
God said, “Ah, finally you have the idea!”