I have written this to make you realize
that you possess eternal life…
1 John 5:13
While editing a chapter in my book (which still isn’t finished!), I realized I was smiling. Though my frustration over not having completed this project remains, strangely enough, I enjoy every minute that I spend writing. This is an odd turn of events because it was extremely difficult for me to receive an “A” on creative writing assignments throughout elementary and high school. In college, I did slightly better only because most papers involved research and the recycling of established facts. No creativity required!
Perhaps this is the reason that I was somewhat shocked when a writing opportunity arose decades ago. My husband and I were helping to establish a new parish in our town. Our new pastor asked me to write “something inspirational that will fill a column or two” for our first parish bulletin. Father Farrell thought my involvement was a no-brainer since I was a teacher. As a former teacher himself, he assumed that I could write anything. I surprised myself when I managed to bury my fear and to compose something acceptable in response.
Every week since, I’ve poured over scriptures passages, my life experiences and my relationship with God to do the same. What began as a challenge has morphed into a welcome opportunity. You see, the subject matter is very important to me. I am who I am because of God’s presence in my life. This opportunity to inspire others to make a place for God in their lives is a dream-come-true!
Now if I ever finish that book, you’ll see…
Generous God, you are a part of all of our lives. Help us to celebrate you in our labor, in our leisure and in all that we do.
©2020 Mary Penich – All Rights Reserved