Embrace grace

High in the Tyrolean Alps, Network of Architecture designed Ötzi Peak 3251m viewing station, named in honor of the mummified iceman discovered nearby. As the highest summit in the area it was long ago marked with a cross, which the architects chose to build around. (Photo by Alex Filz, courtesy of Network of Architecture)

AT THE CENTER of your vocation journey stands the cross—the symbol of God’s self-sacrificing love, the source and summit of the Christian life. As you begin to discern where God is calling you, you will be drawn in different directions, switchback, cover old ground, stumble, and fall. Sometimes the forward climb will be exhilarating, other times exhausting. When you finally reach a peak—the point where you are confident of the direction your life will take—possibly as a sister, nun, brother, or priest—you will realize that the journey is nowhere near over. Like Peter, John, and James witnessing the Transfiguration, you may desire to stay on the mountaintop reveling in the glory, but discipleship demands service. Healing and spreading the Good News are next on the agenda as you continue your trek. But you will carry that moment at the summit with you always. It was an encounter with grace that you chose to embrace.