Homemade Theology

I am no theologian.

I am really not trained as a teacher either.

My gift is sharing the teachings of our faith in a way that makes them approachable in our daily lives. Quite frankly, that's because I have to do it in my own life!

That being said, practicality only goes so far. Conversion of heart can start with the practicalities, but as Christians we are called to reach beyond practicalities in order to live as disciples spreading the Good News of Jesus.

It's easy to say, "I just don't have time, but that's okay because I think I live a pretty good life." (I have a one-year-old and another on the way, I understand lack of time.)

It's easy to say, "I'm not a "churchy" person." (Sssshhh...I'm not either. It is much easy for me to approach God and faith from my life than from a book or a pew.)

So, if we face these obstacles, but we know that we are called to a deeper conversion of heart how are we ever supposed to succeed? Aren't we just being setup for failure?

NO.

There are so many opportunities available to each and every person. To believe that you are the exception to the rule that we need to continuously be formed in our faith is an excuse. One can customize a deeper faith experience to nearly any circumstance. Take these examples:

- Contact your parish. Most parishes have faith formation opportunities that extend far beyond the years of Confirmation. Even if they don't, they will be able to refer you to other parish and diocesan resources. These are often great opportunities for growth because they are short, convenient, within a community of others seeking spiritual depth, they are often not materials based for those who don't like to do much reading, and they have a level of accountability built in.

- Contact your pastor or pastoral associate. The role of a pastor is to shepherd, teach and witness. If you indicate a desire to learn more about your faith but are concerned about time, they can customize a schedule to meet your needs.

- Set aside one hour to visit a local Catholic bookstore or your parish library. No, this does not mean go online to Amazon. If you give yourself the gift of time and physical presence to read samples of books about your faith, you are more likely to find something that reads to your level of understanding and interest. An online synopsis is just not the same. Feel free to consult Mr. Google or contact your parish for some initial suggestions.

- Commit to only one area at a time. To think that you will process a lifetime of spiritual growth in a year is unrealistic. Take the pillars of the Catholic faith (belief, prayer, sacraments, and morality) and select one to learn about for a period of time. Take prayer for example. If you can deepen your spiritual life by way of regular conversation with God, think of how much God can share with you?

My point is, daily living of faith is great! Practical ideas that help us maintain our relationship with God in the midst of our busy lives are important. Just as important, however, is making time for a deeper exploration of God in our world and our lives. Learning about God must be more than a convenience. It must be a priority.