Very often, when we think of surrendering, negative thoughts come to mind. When we surrender we have to give something up, in war the opponent surrenders when he is defeated, we surrender things thus losing them. Even recently, we’ve had to surrender our ‘freedom’- not going out, not meeting our families and friends, all for the sake of being safe and protecting ourselves. We gave up something in return for something better.
In one of his reflections, pope Francis invites us to “Ask Jesus what He wants of you, and be brave.” In a world which may have inclined us more towards a no, to a life where what’s most important is what’s in it for me… the question is will we have the courage to say yes to God?
They say old habits die hard - at times our “dark cold places” become our comfort zone because we’re afraid to step out into the light and take that first step towards what God is offering us. In yesterday’s gospel we see Peter attempt the impossible- walking on water. He takes the first step and starts making his way towards Jesus. However, it took one moment of doubt and he starts sinking. This may be our experience when deciding to surrender all- we start confidently but then hit a wall. Our confidence is shaken, we automatically start assessing the risks - and we’d rather stay in our boat. However, once we start opening up to God.. he starts calling us, by name bridging the gap between our brokenness and our full potential, all we need to do is put our pride aside, accept His guidance and start moving forward towards a better self.
So as we use this song today, may we be reminded that God is there… lending out His hand… letting us know He’s there to get us through. Our role in all of this - simply surrender!
Below is a Youtube link and Spotify link to listen to I Surrender to You by Fr. Rob Galea.
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