While looking for some Catholic conferences and inspiring music that I would like to insert on our online Newsletter, I came across a beautiful song on YouTube. Actually, at that time, I was feeling down and sad. I needed some encouragement and consolation. But I have to work, do what I need to do at the moment. To wallow in one’s sad feelings is time-consuming and brings no blessing. So I just ignored my present predicament. I know, by doing the will of the moment, I will feel better in the long run.
The song is German, but the title’s English translation is: “God be with you.” It has such a soothing melody, and the Text, though simple, conveys a profound and consoling message. The beautiful accompaniment and the mellow voice of the singer, Reinhard Börner, enhanced the whole song, making it so moving and comforting. It lifted my spirit and consoled my heart. Thus I was able to write this blog – it inspired me.
Here is the song: Gott sei mit dir (God be with you)
I also did my best to translate it into English and made it possible for a sing-along.
God be with you in every place, to distant land he leads the way.
In danger He’s your mighty shield, his Hands is always with you near.
God be with you in every hour, in sadness He consoles your heart.
He is the strength behind your back that carries you to a new shore.
God be with you in each your day, who knows what may tomorrow bring?
He is your light in the dark night, just like a fire, so flaming bright.
God be with you in every step, He goes with you wher’er you go!
And until we shall meet again, his blessings go with you, I pray.
People think that we, contemplative nuns, do not feel down and out. Some even concluded that, since we are serving the Lord and are seemingly close to him, our life must be smooth sailing – no stress, no problem, no pain. Who do they think we are?
We are not angels. Neither are we superhuman beings. Like everybody else, we are persons of flesh and blood. We have positive and negative qualities; we also struggle against sin and temptation. We also have wounds that we present to our Lord for healing. In short, we are human beings, made of clay, but created, like you, in God’s image and likeness. (cf. Gen. 1:27)
With the help of God’s grace, we work to overcome ourselves – our pettiness, negativeness, sinfulness, and whatnot. Only in this way can we become useful for God’s Kingdom, for the Church and the world. Experiencing our need for grace and redemption, we learn to feel and empathize with those who suffer and are in pain. Encountering our weaknesses and sinfulness, and admitting and confessing it in humility, we get nearer to the goal of becoming like Jesus Christ, our Lord and Spouse.
“Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful” (Lk. 6:36). “Be holy, because I, your God, am holy.” (cf. Lev. 11:45)
