From the Deacon's Desk

Each day, I reflect upon a word or a phrase inspired by the readings of the day. I encourage you to do the same and perhaps incorporate that word or phrase into your daily prayer.

“O God, blessed are you. Help me, who am alone and have no help but you, for I am taking my life in my hand.” (Esther C:14-15)

ALONE: It might seem like an odd word to reflect upon during prayer. If we tell God we feel alone at times, doesn’t that highlight a vulnerability and weakness? Well, yes and no.

Admitting to God, or anyone for that matter, that we feel alone at times certainly makes us vulnerable. However, it is important to distinguish between vulnerability and weakness. To be vulnerable is to put ourselves ‘at risk’ – at risk for rejection, or at risk for going further down an undesirable path.

Admitting that we feel alone at times DOES NOT makes us weak. When I admit that I feel alone, I am saying I value myself enough to reach out for help. I am saying I recognize that I value relationships and seek connection to something or someone outside of myself. To feel alone at times is an act of humility.

Finally, who better to share this with than God? The act of praying to God leads us to the realization that we NEVER walk alone!