I have
found God in an array of expected and unexpected moments that have been knit
together to create a unique tapestry of memories. Sometimes, God appears
in obvious ways like enjoying the beautiful blooming tulips and other gifts of
spring in nature as I walk through campus to class each day. At times, I feel
as though the warm rays of sunshine are simply God’s emanating love flowing
down from above. Other times, I find God in life’s sweetest moments, for
example exchanging a much-needed hug with a good Rockhurst pal after a trying
day. These moments remind me not only of God’s goodness but how if I look for
him I can find him in others’ actions.
However, finding God doesn’t
always happen in the obvious or sweet instances in life. At times, I have
found God in bitter, unexpected experiences that I don’t understand. For
example, I have uncovered God during service immersion trips in glimpsing the
poverty of the individuals living in the place I was visiting, whether that was
domestically in West Virginia or abroad in Guatemala. In these moments, I have
found it important to hold the experience not trying to change it but accepting
the experience for what it is and acknowledging God’s presence. It requires
trust in Him and openness to his greatness to accept these moments and to add
them to the diverse and beautiful tapestry of life that God is
creating for me.
My hope for each of you is
that you embrace all of the opportunities in your life to find God. May you be
open to the impact those memories can have in your life as pieces knitted into
the tapestry of life that God is creating for and with you.
-
Reflection
by Katherine Hoffman
A native of Trenton, Missouri, Katherine graduated from Rockhurst with her bachelor’s degree in 2012 and is currently in her first-year of the doctorate in Physical Therapy program. As an undergraduate, Katherine was involved in CLC as both a leader and member, ASA and APO. She also participated in two spring break service trips: one to Guatemala and one to West Virginia.