Is It Me? Or the Ene-Me?

After a recent FYCV presentation, a participant commented, “I don’t have the patience to evangelize.  These people just do not get it and it is totally frustrating to talk with them about faith and religion.”

I suggested considering that her view is very likely one that the enemy – the devil – wants her to have.  And if she goes on believing it is simply in her nature with no way to change it, that is perfect – as far as the enemy is concerned. 

“There are people that your personality resonates with, that mine does not.  And those are especially the people that the Holy Spirit wants your help in reaching.  They are also the ones that the enemy does not want you talking to about spiritual matters.   When you are overcome with a sense of frustration and impatience, find some time to reflect on those feelings, thank Jesus for making you aware of them, and ask him to use his grace to help you overcome them so that you can be more effective at serving him.”

While unlikely that this will result in an immediate change, nonetheless, when Jesus promises “if you ask anything in my name, I will do it.” (Jn 14:14) this is the kind of request he will honor.  He will help us to find our Catholic voice.