I trained as a priest at the College of the Resurrection in Mirfield. The college is part of a monastic community. There is a college, a shared church, and a monastery. The monks live a cloistered life within the confines of an enclosure. No one may enter that enclosure without good reason unless they are a member of that community of faith. Others may enter only with the permission of the superior.
It may be that a monk is gravely ill and needs the Sacrament of Anointing, or it may be that a workman must enter to make a needed repair.
The image of an enclosure is equivalent to our soul. We must give the key to Jesus and allow him to safeguard it. He will only allow those who belong to enter in.
In my everyday duties as a priest, I meet people who seem to be seeking help. Clearly, I offer help, as that is why I am here. But I am humbled by the encounter, enriched in my soul, and, above all, strengthened in my faith.
What is it that you allow into your soul?
Do you allow the Lord to guard you and govern your inner thoughts and your heart?
Too often, we let worldly things in, opening the door to the temptations of the world. Give the key to your soul to our Jesus. He will guard you and keep you safe. He will welcome all those with whom he desires you to dwell and open the door to those who come to heal and restore.
But if you let him, he will diligently protect this sacred space of your soul from what does not belong.
A Prayer for the week
Lord, I do give you the one and only key to my soul. I choose you as my guardian this day. Allow me to commune freely with those whom you have invited into my life and set before me. Help me to love them and to serve them with all my heart. As I give you this key, I thank you that you will protect me. May I trust you and never seek to welcome that which displeases you and that which you do not welcome. Amen.
Every blessing
Father Paul
P.S.
Ascension—On Thursday, May 9, at 6 pm, there will be a Holy Communion at St. Mary’s Church for the Feast of the Ascension. It is a service for all of the benefice. I look forward to seeing you there if you are able.
APCM—Our annual meeting is on Wednesday, May 8, at St. Mary the Virgin Church. Come along to hear about our plans for the year and ask questions. The meeting lasts about 30 minutes.