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So I celebrated Easter in NYC this year, and honestly it was a little strange not being with my family. I had a lovely Easter brunch with my friends, but at church, it was just me, myself, and I.
You know how you’re always way more observant when it’s just you?
So there I was, sitting in the pews, looking around at all the couples holding hands, worshipping together – it was a beautiful thing.
And I couldn’t help but find my mind wandering to think about my own future love, and praying for him, whoever he may be.
And in that very moment, I realized that I was sitting directly in between two full rows of nuns.
On row, dressed like Mother Teresa, and the other row dressed like Maria in the Sound of Music.
And I actually gave an audible 
Anyone who says God doesn’t have a sense of humor just isn’t looking hard enough.
But I became captivated by these nuns for the rest of Mass. I looked at them during the sermon, and every single one of them had this beautiful, peaceful smile on their faces. Not like some creepy permagrin or anything. But they just had this expression of complete peace.
They had an inner joy, that frankly I found missing from many of the bored, zoned out faces that were also present in the congregation.
And if I’m being really honest…an inner joy that was missing from myself, too.
How often have I just rested in His love for me? How often have I just sat and let His love wash over me and permeate every single cell of my being?
I mean, sure I listen to awesome podcasts by Fr. Mike Schmitz or other preachers and fill my ears with words and thoughts and messages about God, but what about just spending time, actually with God. How often do I just sit and feel His love for me, and let that change me?
And I’m going to be honest…the answer to that question is not something I am super proud of.
Jesus didn’t suffer, die, and rise again so that we could simply know about Him. He did all those things to be in relationship with us. To be our best friend. Our confidant. Our everything.
Those nuns were completely captivated by His love. At peace. Resting. With a radiating, subtle joy that only comes from knowing, claiming, and feeling His love.
And here we are, on the pinnacle of our faith – the quintessential example of His self-giving love for us: Easter – What a time to start making time to be with Jesus.
Because the truth is, we are not guaranteed tomorrow.
It’s been one heck of a year, with my mom’s stroke. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that life is uncertain. And fragile. And things that we take for granted and time that we’re “certain” we have in abundance, is not always a sure bet.
And if there’s one thing that needs to be Numero Uno on our priority list, it is our relationship with Jesus. Jesus: the resurrected Lord whom we are celebrating this Easter season. We must get that right. We must have that figured out. Not tomorrow. Not next year. Not when we’re older and have sown our wild oats. Today.
I want to possess that peace I see in those nuns.
And that only comes from resting in His love.
Looks like it’s time for me to meet Jesus at the Cross, and just sit and be with Him.
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176 responses to “A Sea of Nuns”
There’s joy in that journey. The fact that you contemplated it all let’s you know it’s a fact. Terrific perspective. The nuns were teaching you and didn’t have to speak. Hugs and God’s grip.
Yes, there certainly is joy in that journey. thank you for your kind words. big hugs to you xox
“Just sit and be with Him” – Yes, it’s a joyful, peaceful place to be. I’m glad to hear you’re taking it to heart! ❤️👌🏽
Amen to that! Thank you JanBee 🙂 Hugs and love xox
Lol too funny about the nuns! Made me chuckle out loud! xoxo <3
Oh good! Haha glad you got the humor too:) hehe Hugs and love xox
Been watching sister act again, literally my first thought, now I’ll go read thus one lol
Haha I don’t think I’ve actually seen that movie! I need to remedy that ASAP! Hugs and love xox
Second thought was actually about mother jugs and speed. But neither as funny as what God did there….gotta love His humor.
You really do. He is dang hilarious!!
Hugs and Happy Easter!! Many people find themselves taken aback by nuns and aren’t sure sure to interact with them. Mostly you hear how this one and that one were “years ago” as part of someone’s Catholic School upbringing. We actually had a wonderful experience engaging with 2 nuns in the church we went to in our years in South Carolina. They were of The Felician Order and ran the outreach center in Kingstree, where we lived. We did the music with them and helped when we could with some of the volunteer things at their center. It was amazing. Some orders are very active like the Felicians, and some are more into prayer and contemplation, like The Poor Claires and others. Your observances are totally on. They see Jesus for all He did the bring God’s love to the world no matter what a person’s situation. I think your taking of His love is wonderful!! Hugs and love every day!! Have a wonderful Easter season!!
Happy Easter to you too, Migueltio! I know, they really do. I had a friend who became nun at the age of 24, and she was like, Just treat me like normal! haha Wow, what a great experience. Amazing indeed. thank you for your kind words, as always! Hugs and love xox
xoxoxoxo
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Beautiful words. I loved this blog and the message that God loves us just being with him and letting his love flow around us.
Thank you so much Jo! You’re amazing, thanks for your kind words ! Hugs and love xox
Beautiful, Caralyn. Amen. I want that peace in Him too. Psalm 16:8 a reality in my daily life. ❤
Thank you so much Heather! I will have to look that verse up, i appreciate you sharing. there is power in His word 🙂 Hugs and love xox
Let me be “That Guy” and suggest the possibility (nothing more but certainly nothing less) that God might be calling you to that kind of life. My son is 3 1/2 years into vows with the Dominicans and is as happy as I have ever seen him. But he spent a lot of effort telling God to just forget it because he was going to be a sports broadcaster who planned to eventually get married and raise a family. He would have been wonderful at all of those things. But I think he is going to make a fabulous priest in another 3 years. I have yet to meet someone with a religious vocation who didn’t start with an emphatic “no way!” Just sayin . . . . 🙂
Thanks JP, yeah, that’s what someone in my life also suggested. I fear I am far too “boy crazy” to become a nun. Wow – that is amazing about your son! I will definitely keep him in my prayers. We need good strong priests. Wow – so awesome. Haha – I hear ya. Well, I won’t completely “poo poo” the idea. I will be open to whatever God calls me to do 🙂 so glad you stopped by! Hugs and love xox
For starters, you would make an adorable nun. Second, don’t obsess about being alone. For those of us who did when we were in our twenties, it often ended in disasters that resulted in failed first marriages and lessons learned.
Certainly sitting alone, be it in church, a restaurant, or anywhere else lends itself to more opportunities to be hyper-observant of other people. I’m just glad that you had such a wonderful group of people sitting in front of you. (Just think, it could have been a rowdy group of high school kids who were there because their parents dragged them there).
Be blessed and keep the smiles coming.
Love and blessings,
Jim
aw, Jim, you’re so kind. thank you for saying that. Yeah, I need to be patient and trust God’s timing. He’s got me. I just need to trust. Thanks for the encouragement. Amen to that 🙂 Hugs and love xox
You have a heart filled with love and purity. I admire that in you.
Love and Blessings,
Jim
thank you again, Jim. I am truly so touched. 🙂 xox
What a beautiful reflection on what it is to live in God’s love and rest in Him! Thanks for posting this much-needed reminder, dear sister in Christ!
Love and God Bless,
Michelle
Thank you so much Michelle! Yeah, there’s peace to be found!! So glad you stopped by! Hugs and love xox
Beautiful post!! You and I have a lot in common!! It’s uncanny. I don’t know why I’ve never followed your blog before, but I am now! I don’t think my avatar links, but this is Meg from the Why Does Bad Advice Happen? blog.
Thank you so much Meg! I’m so glad that this resonated with you 🙂 Great! Looking forward to reading more from you 🙂 Hugs and love xox
The Bible describes it as the peace that passes all understanding. Thinking that through you can understand why the unconverted can’t comprehend that. The peace comes from an understanding of salvation which they don’t have so they are very much aware of the fact this life is the pits and don’t see a beyond on the horizon. Unless there is that heart connection there will be no peace amidst the turmoil of this life. I believe you do have that peace. 🙂
Thank you so much for this thoughtful response, Ian. The peace that passes all understanding. I love that. And thanks for that encouragement. it really means a lot. hope you had a great Easter! Hugs and love xox
A few years ago, I went on a self-directed retreat at an abbey of cloistered nuns in Connecticut. I was able to spend a little time with several of them over the course of my 3 days there and found their serenity and quiet joy nothing short of amazing. Talk about living for God! And the retreat was an amazing experience for me. Ted
Oh wow, that sounds absolutely amazing. I’m so glad you were able to have that experience, Ted! thanks for sharing! Hugs and love xox
Luke 24:40-42 “In this reading from Luke, we can understand the disciples’ confusion; they can’t quite believe Jesus is back from the dead. What better way to convince them that he is not a ghost than to eat something solid right in front of them? Ghosts don’t eat-but real people do.”
It took much less to convince me that Patricia Bow was indeed back from the dead and dwelling within me. Her kissing me the day after she died was enough. She dwells within me and we love forever! I feel closest to my beloved at Mass. One soul in two bodies.
Thank you so much for sharing this heart felt reflection. That’s so true! It’s hard to imagine what that must have really been like. One soul in two bodies. love. Hugs and love xox
I have been practicing lectio divina every morning for 25 years and spend at least one hour most days in contemplative prayer; resting in God. The community at New Melleray Abbey helped me learn this. Find a contemplative copmmunity of monks or nuns and visit them on a week-long private retreat. You will be glad you did. It sounds like this is exactly where your heart is leading you next.
Oh wow that is so beautiful David. Thank you for sharing that. I’ll look into it! Hugs and love xox
Yes. This. Thank you for the reminder.
Thank you friend 🙂 i like the new icon btw! Hugs and love xox
I don’t know if I’m going to keep it. I explained in my most recent post why I changed, and it isn’t exactly a good reason.
Well, I think it’s pretty cool! looking forward to reading about it! Hugs and love xox
Thank you 🙂
xoxox 🙂 🙂 🙂 xoxo
🙂
Great post. I know a few Nuns and same thing – always smiling. Maybe they know something we don’t know 🙂
Thank you so much! contagious smiles. I think you’re right about that! Hugs and love xox
It sounds like you’re discerning your path right now, whether you want to or not! Only you know what He’s whispering to your heart, and only you can respond to that calling. If you knew my backstory, you would hardly call me the prime candidate for the priesthood, and even today I would call myself just as “girl crazy” as you call yourself “boy crazy.” And yet I spent my entire day today interviewing with priests and deacons to be a priest! Do I know whether the priesthood or whether marriage is in my future? No, and a part of me still prays to meet a woman I love and trust enough to marry, but I also know that’s a selfish prayer and if you feel called to serve God, you should be completely open letting God guide your paths. You’ll be absolutely amazed (and happy) with where your life goes!
Thank you Rob, I really appreciate your kind words and encouragement. Yes – I need to listen for the still small voice! That’s so true. Will be praying for you! big hugs to you xox
Thank you! I’ll take all the prayers I can get at this point. 🙂
absolutely!!! xoxo
You never write a bad post, but this is definitely one of my favorites. The title reeled me in, then you made some outstanding statements. I absolutely loved this one: “Jesus didn’t suffer, die, and rise again so that we could simply know about Him. He did all those things to be in relationship with us. To be our best friend. Our confidant. Our everything.” God has given you a huge platform through this blog, and you have used it well. Thanks for being a shining light!
Thank you so much Matthew 🙂 What a kind thing to say! I’m so glad this resonated with you. Amen to that – He wants to be our everything! Hugs and love xox
So…if you had been sitting in the balcony, would you have been with Nun of the Above? Just sayin’ Comments at Patreon.
hahaha oh my gosh, i was waiting for the first nun pun and ding ding ding we have a winner!! 🙂 hehehe so glad it was you, my friend. seems very fitting 🙂 hahah Can’t wait to read your words over at Patreon! Hugs and love xox
Puns are a habit of mine.
being a pun master is a incredibly terrific trait. 🙂
You are wise beyond your years.
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Currently blessed by spiritual direction from a Benedictine Sister. Happy Easter!
Oh that’s so awesome! you are very blessed to have that opportunity! Hugs and love xox
I know! That peace is so fulfilling, so much higher than the troubles of this world. God bless
amen to that!! thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
Love your post ! Always so uplifting. Your are such a beautiful person inside and out never gorget that . Hugs lady🙂
Thank you so much! oh my gosh you are way too kind 🙂 thanks for making me smile. big hugs to you too xox
Only speaking the truth ❤️
🙂 xoxoxoxoxooxox 🙂
Awww thank you!
anytime, friend. anytime 🙂
Keep up the good words and thoughts, Triple B. As you continue to hope in Him, Jesus knows the desires of your heart and will give them to you. Best to you and your loved ones this Easter season.
thank you so much friend! I do trust that with my whole heart. same to you! Hugs and love xox
Adoration chapel. That’s where Heaven is on Earth.
Amen to that, Earl! It’s one of my favorite places to be 🙂 thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
Aha, that could be a sign for you. Happy Easter!
very true. i don’t know if i am ready to entertain that idea haha seems verrrry frightening to even consider, if i’m being brutally honest. Thanks for stopping by!! big hugs xox
I see I’m not the only one who thought (not for the first time BTW) that this might be the beginning of a call. As to the boy crazy part, God doesn’t ask us to obey without there being a sacrifice… Food for thought.
Thank you Linda, I really appreciate your thoughtful response. Yeah, I had someone in my life also suggest that. Honestly, it is a scary thought to even entertain. I feel an incredible call to be a wife. All I want to do is take care of my future husband and love him and make a home and have children. I feel such a strong pull for that. But i will always be open to God’s call and will keep my heart open to His will 🙂 thank you so much for the food for thought. it truly means so much. big hugs to you xox
I’m praying for you whatever path God has ahead for you.
Oh gosh Linda you are a blessing. Thank you again
Miss Caralyn
Hey, ya never know. There’s been something in your writing over the last year that has had me wondering if you are called to the religious life in some way whether in community or as a consecrated virgin – both options make sense. I’m not entirely certain I can explain or clarify what I’m hearing/seeing/experiencing – it’s simply there.
Where ever you land it will be in love of Jesus and a saying “yes” to God.
One of the things I’ve been thinking deeply about lately is community, and connectedness. Any time we participate in the Sacrifice of the Mass we are deeply in community whether we go solo, or as my Sweetie and I do – together – we are in the greater community of the Church.
Together worshiping Jesus, expressing oh you know all that.
Dear Heart where ever God leads the journey will, like you, be Beautiful Beyond the Bones and bring new life.
Wow, Teri, thank you so much for this beautiful comment. I am seriously so touched. And I so appreciate your thinking about/praying for my vocation. I fully want to live out God’s will for my life. And even though the thought of that frankly terrifies me, I will pray about it. And that is so beautiful about you and your Sweetie. You’re right – community and connectedness is so vitally important. thank you for the love and kindness that you’ve shared with me tonight. it means the world 🙂
Wow. This was so good . I needed this . It’s so easy to get caught up in just knowing who Jesus is and doing our “Christian” duties . Something changes within us when we have an intimate relationship with our savior. I need to get back to that place 💕
Thank you so much friend. I am with you there! That intimate relationship. I’ve spent the evening listening to worship music, and I’ve found myself singing and feeling that peace. the Audrey Assad station on Pandora is a good one for that 🙂 sending big hugs xo
Beautiful post, and something that’s been playing on my mind for longer than it should.. Genuine relationship with Him.
Thank you so much Kuda. Yes! Genuine relationship. amen to that. Hugs and love xox
Hey Caralyn:
Many times Holy Spirit is attempting to get our attention to sit quietly, so we can hear His still small voice.
Often we expect to hear God speak through a famous Preacher, Evangelist, Priest, at a retreat or special meeting. At times Holy Spirit does minister in that venue, but I believe His favourite way is One to one, Spirit to spirit, using our time of being quiet. Often it may be following spending time reading the written Word of God, about the Living Word of God.
We may hear the voice of Holy Spirit in the still times, very quietly. We may hear the voice of our Lord Jesus calling our name, as our Good Shepherd getting our attention.
Those times are so meaningful and precious.
Sitting, quietly saying the Name of Jesus, with expectations, worshipping Him.
God Bless you Caralyn, as you make, and take, the time to seek Jesus Christ, eager to hear Him, and to hear His plan and direction for your life.
1 Kings 19:12-13
12 After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. 13 When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave.
Then a voice said to him, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”
John 10:27
27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.
God’s 5 “P”s for each of our lives.
Purpose – Psalm 138:8
Plan – Jeremiah 29:11
Power – Acts 1:8
Potential – Joshua 1:8
Provision – Luke 12:24
Our Lord Jesus has great plans for you Caralyn. As you continue to seek Him, and listen to Him, He will unfold them bit by bit, as much as you can handle at each time.
I am excited to hear in the future what His plans are for you too, and seeing them fulfilled for the Glory of God, and to continue to bless many more people.
Luv,
😀🌹❤️
Hi George, gosh, thank you so much for this, and for sharing these powerful verses. I do trust in His good plans, it’s just the patience I have to work on haha. You’re so absolutely right – we have to listen for His voice, however it comes. And remember His goodness 🙂 hope you had a beautiful Easter, my friend! Hugs and love xox
God is a true lover…You can’t see or touch yet he is always around; protecting, guideing and showering love and at the same time accept you as you are….
Amen to that. What beautiful words. Thank you friend. Hugs and love xox
WOW! Did you just say God has a sense of humor? Lol. He has the best kind of humor in the world! Let me tell you what He did and I am NOT going to leave the very detailed list of what asked Him for. I however, do free to share that I did ask for a Beautiful Christian German Lady to be my friend(not what I was really asking for) because I was living in Germany at the time. In His good nature and looking 14 through the past I do see His goodness. He did give me that wonderful Catholic German woman (I am protestant) and her fiancee (I didn’t want him but her). It was the biggest blessing in my life! Both of them stood as my best man and woman at my wedding with my wife! What I am saying is this…Trust God and His Humor.
Thanks Ivan. Haha He has the best! Awww what a great story!! Thanks for sharing that. Amen! Trust Him! Hugs and love xox
Sorry my proof reader died on me.
No worries 🙂
Ugh 😑…tell me about. The “Big Guy” has quite a sense of humor. Thanks for sharing. Also, I did watch Paul, The Apostle of Christ movie. It was good. Of course, you fav person – Jim C. – was amazing. And spoiler alert – Paul dies 😂. Anywho…how did it feel spending Easter without your fam around? Did you cook one of your specials? Did you add extra carrots 🥕?
*Yep, can’t mess with Miracle Yello’s carrots. Just sayin’ people…it gets real. Keep it 💯 around her food yo.
Quite a sense of humor indeed. Thanks Ish. I can’t wait to see Paul! And SPOILER!! Hahha jk jk oh my gosh you’ve got me laughing out loud! I actually did have carrots that day! Not for dinner – a bag of baby carrots and peanut butter for breakfast 😎😎😎😎 don’t knock it til you try it 😎😎😎😎 Hugs and love xox
Ohh 😮 Miracle Yello just got real with the baby 🥕 🥕 🥕 🥕 . And peanut butter? Yes 🙌…yes…🙇…all hail her majesty Queen Caralyn, daughter is the ☝️ONE, for an amazing spirit-led breakfast.
*I wanna be like you when I grow up.
Hahahah thanks again 🙂
Beautiful, you have such a beautiful heart. Love your post, love your sweet heart!
Gosh thank you so much Lisa. What a kind thing to say! Hugs and love xox
My dear friend,
Yes often the Christ-power gives us hints and even with a big sense of humor – we only have to look closer into the matter and that means to be aware of our own observation, to know the essence of it – this is also a kind of consciousness, a reflection what is already in us and which awakes us sometimes from our life in which go on without thinking deeply enough. It was a reflection of gratitude which you saw in the nons which was like perfume that has touched your heart too.
Better to spend the life alone than to have a partner at one’s side where love is not in harmony. The deep meaning of a couple is: to help each other on the path back to God. And often it is like this: If we force the situation to find a partner, then the situation forces us to find a partner (then we do not think about it…)
So wishing you happiness and all good wishes to you and family
Didi
Thank you so much Didi for this thoughtful response. That’s such poignant insight. Yes – helping one another on the path back to God. Amen. Hugs and love xox
Hi Caralyn,
Thank you for sharing this. It’s an amazing reflection. You’re definitely right, nothing in this world can give us the peace that we deserve which you see from those nuns. Only the “Big Guy” can 😉 I myself am in the journey of that peace as I am currently studying to the priesthood as a seminarian. Keep me in your prayers as I keep you in mine. God Bless!
Thank you so much John Pail. Only the Big Guy can – amen. Will do! Thanks for your prayers! Hugs and love xox
I aspire one day to be a published author like you Caralyn. I started blogging 11 months ago largely due to you. 4300 followers later and 80,000 words into my first young adult novel which is a supernatural story set in Ireland which addresses faith, addiction & mental health issues. You are the finest trainee nun in the U.S of A 😊❤️🙏🏻🇮🇪🇺🇸
Thank you so much for your kind words! And congrats on your novel! Sounds like an awesome story 🙂 Hugs and love xox
Sister Caralyn has a nice ring to it 😂😂 God has an amazing sense of humour, I’ve heard stories from friends and have my own about his humour 😂 are you really late 20’s you don’t look it, I reach then next milestone this year, not looking forward to it 😂 the way you have cared for your mother after the stroke was so inspirational I mean I couldn’t imagine how I’d deal with it without an enormous amount of strength from God ❤️ talking to you and reading your post always lifts my spirits ❤️ you just radiate God’s image, I mean that’s pure beauty!
Haha oh gosh Benny ! Yes God definitely has an awesome sense of humor. Thanks for such kind words. Yes, I am officially no longer mid twenties. So sad haha Hugs and love xox
Love you so much bestie ❤️ Well apparently the older we get we become more wise 😂 not sure that applies to me sadly but you definitely have a wise head on your shoulders x
Right back atcha dear friend 🙂 xox
I am always truly impressed with your awareness, understanding, and pure love for God and your faith. If I had known about the Orthodox Christian church when I was younger, I most likely would have become a nun. I spent decades trying to ‘find’ myself. Working endlessly (sometimes more than one job) trying to make ends meet, trying to fit in to a world that was, and still is, so very different from me and what I grew up learning about, God. I wish during career days at schools that priests, monks and nuns would be allowed to speak to children about joining a monastery. I don’t believe it is more scientists and mathematicians that America needs(the push for STEM programs) but more ascetic living. Not just among those who choose monastic life, but among all believers. My question to you is this… have you considered taking vows? Yes, marriage is another path to sanctification and there is NOTHING wrong with getting married and having a family. I was just wondering…
Thank you so much for sharing your story 🙂 that really would be an amazing thing to have them talk to kids about their vocation. God moves in the heart, that’s for sure. I have not, and honestly that thought terrifies me. I so long to have a husband and family. It really is unsettling to think of not having that, but I have to respect God’s will and at least be open to it. Thanks for your kindness and encouragement. Big hugs to you Melissa! xox
enjoyed reading the story you told about the presence of nuns while attending church, because I can relate on a very personal level with nuns and yes ‘singing nuns’ which is very moving if you ever attended the funeral mass of a nun. My Aunt Mary served as an Irish-born nun in the Sisters of Joseph for over 80 years before her passing last year in Michigan…besides my dear mother of course, she was the one irreplaceable constant in my life and my entire family in fact, with her wonderful interpersonal qualities including a legendary history of letter writing which I benefited from because it really showed she was not just praying for me and thinking about me, she wanted to know that I was also thinking of her and praying for her…I can hardly stop from crying just a little even now thinking of her and her life of devotion and service which included many students she taught and encouraged in her vibrant years, and later she ministered in pastoral care duties to poor parishes.
Thank you so much for sharing your story. Wow, what an incredible example of faith you had in Sister Aunt Mary. Thank you for sharing that with me. What an incredible blessing to have known such a beautiful soul. Hugs and love xox
thanks beaut. hugx. I wish I could tell you so much about my Aunt Mary, but also about Nazareth and the other sisters there where she first entered her novitiate, but this is not the place for that I know. If you visited there that would be the only way for you to know what you would never forget. All the nuns are aging rapidly, with only a few I think in their 50s, and the rest 70 and above. Maybe I could post some photos of the place. I will think about it. Let me know if you would like to know more about Nazareth. They do have outreaches and workshops there too. The chapel is incredible and unforgettable. Pray for me too. Will pray for you that God will lead you in the paths of righteousness for his namesake, as always. Ed.
Thanks again, Ed. You offer such a powerful perspective. Sounds absolutely incredibly. I definitely will keep you in my prayers, and thank you for your prayers as well! Hugs and love xox
very welcome…the blessing of the Lord makes us rich (in spirit).
amen! xoxoxo 🙂
This post reminds me so much of a dear friend of mine, Lyndsey. She turned 30 late last year, and has been struggling with the lack of love in her life. She’s been on a few dates, here and there, but nothing has stuck. I feel really bad for her, because many of her friends (myself included) are in relationships, married, have children, etc. She’s such a faithful Christian, and her heart is definitely with God. It’s hard to watch her struggle. She’s one of the sweetest people on this Earth. I love spending time with her. But, she’s asked me why she hasn’t been as lucky as me, or our friend Amanda, and it breaks my heart 🙁 I pray for her every day. She has the love of her family and her Father, but she’s desperate to meet the man of her dreams.
Thank you so much Laura Beth 🙂 and thanks for sharing that story about Lyndsey. Your a good friend. Yes God has a plan for her that is good and perfectly timed. I have to remind myself that too 🙂 so glad you stopped by! Hugs and love xox
You’re so welcome! Thanks for reading, and responding. It’s been weighing on my heart for a while. I love being a good friend, but it’s so hard sometimes. Thank you so much for your sweet words and encouragement – You’ve lifted my spirits!
Oh good! Well you always do the same for me 🙂 truly! Hope you have a terrific Tuesday! Xoxo
C,
My wife, youngest son, and I went to see the movie Paul, the Apostle, Easter Sunday afternoon and as we turned the corner into the seating area, there were several nuns sitting in the front row of the second section. This particular theater has stadium seats so we climbed toward the top.
A powerful film, and when it ended, we all sat in silence for a few moments. As we exited the building there two nuns in front of us and I greeted them with “Happy Easter” and “He is Risen!” And one of them said, “Yes he has!”
Have a blessed day and week!
Jim
Hi Jim, oh nice! Yeah I’ve heard awesome things about it. Can’t wait to watch it! Hugs and love xox
Love this post, Caralyn!!! xoxo
Thank you so much! I’m so glad! Hugs and love xox
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Love your posts girl! Honest, human and very heart warming! I always see your love for Christ breaking through. Thank you. Margi
Aw thank you so much Margi 🙂 that really means a lot. Sending so much love! Xox
If i may pick your brain, how would you, as a young lady pursiung Jesus, want to be approached by a suitor (who is also pursuing Jesus) with the proposition of dating/courtship? What has your dad told you about how the young man should (or shouldn’t) initiate this?
Hi Steve! Thanks for your question. I think it’s all about communication and respect. I think you both will feel whether or not there’s chemistry. You’ll be able to tell that with eye contact, how the conversation goes, just the “vibe.” And then from there it’s just about getting to know the other person. I think there’s more a list of things that guys *shouldnt* do than what they should do. But bottom line, is respect. Hope that helps. Hugs and love xox
Thank you! I know a little too much about getting it wrong. If I had a nickel for every time I messed it up, I’d have enough money to take a girl out on an incredible date…if she’d say yes.😆
Haha 💛💛💛
I’m in awe over reading your blog and all of these informative comments. I’ve been taking notes!
Goodness sakes! Lots to think about here.
Glad you have so many followers and so many that leave you inspiring feedback.
Oh my gosh you’re amazing Teri, thank you so much! Yeah I feel very blessed to receive such awesome advice and perspectives. I am humbled every time. Thanks so much for stopping by! Hope you have a wonderful Tuesday! Hugs and love xox
Happy Easter! He is risen!
Thank you for this beautiful post!
When I first deep-down believed that God truly delights in me when I delight in Him, my relationship with Him darastically changed. It was easy for me to think about delighting in HIM as the Bridegroom, but harder for me to think about Him actually delighting in me, His broken, cheating bride.
Ahhh! And the truth of His delight in me only leads to deeper adoration of Him– what love! What grace! Our Jesus who fills everything in every way– who fills us to the measure with all the fullness of God. How often do I close myself off instead of opening up? Too often. Thanks be to God for His relentless pursuit. Grace and peace to you, sister! 💕❤️
-Donielle Hart
Amen Donielle! Your heart for the Lord is so beautiful and inspiring. Thank you so much for sharing this. Big big hugs to you and happy Easter!
Loved your reflections on your relationship to God. Hope you keep finding the same peace as the nuns.
thank you so much 🙂 i appreciate that! Hugs and love xox
Hey! I just wanted to let you know that I nominated you for the Versatile Blogger Award!
https://anxiouschristianduringanxioustimes.wordpress.com/2018/04/02/versatile-blogger-award/
I really enjoy your content!
❤️ Kay.
oh gosh, thank you so much Kay! what an honor! Hugs and love xox
No problem! Keep up the great work!
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Ah! You don’t have to be a professed nun to know the joy of belonging completely to Jesus. Watch out He does the proposing and rarely takes no for an answer. Wishing you all the joys of the Resurrection.
Thank you so much. That’s so true!! Hugs and love xox
That is what it is all about. Spending time WITH God not just hearing or reading about God. That sense of peace comes from the experiential process of letting God in.
Thanks so much friend 🙂 amen to that! Hugs and love xox
Great post! If you are looking for a great book talking about siting with God daily, take a look at 2 Chairs by Bob Beaudine. His book has been transformational in how I conduct my every day life.
Thanks so much J! I’ll check it out! Hugs and love xox
What a great read! There really is true peace when we take time to rest in His presence. ❤️
Thanks so much Rosie! Amen to that! Hugs and love xox
Hugs and love to you as well! ❤️
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Ok, I’ll say what I don’t see written here: Have you considered that while you were praying for the man you want God to send you, he filled your vision with women who have made a commitment to God–perhaps because God wants you to consider committing your life to God through religious life. Have you explored the possibility of becoming a sister? If not, why not? Sometimes God puts something in front of us that we don’t want to see or know, and God is inviting us to move beyond our fears and expectations to consider another way.
Thank you so much Madeline for this thoughtful response. I haven’t considered that, mainly because it scares me half to death. Because i want to get married and have a family and raise my kids near their cousins and aunts and uncles. I long to do His will so I will keep my heart open, but I don’t think that calling has been placed in my heart. Great points. Thank you again friend. 🙂 Hugs and love xox
Thank you for this post! This is exactly what I needed to read right in this moment. It is so true and important that I need to place my relationship with Jesus above all else.
thanks so much! i’m so glad this resonated with you. yeah, i definitely need that reminder all the time 🙂 Hugs and love xox
1 Corinthians 7:6-8
6 But I speak this by permission, and not of commandment.
7 For I would that all men were even as I myself. But every man hath his proper gift of God, one after this manner, and another after that.
8 I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I.
1 Corinthians 7:37-40
37 Nevertheless he that standeth stedfast in his heart, having no necessity, but hath power over his own will, and hath so decreed in his heart that he will keep his virgin, doeth well.
38 So then he that giveth her in marriage doeth well; but he that giveth her not in marriage doeth better.
39 The wife is bound by the law as long as her husband liveth; but if her husband be dead, she is at liberty to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord.
40 But she is happier if she so abide, after my judgment: and I think also that I have the Spirit of God.
THank you for sharing these verses! Hugs and love xox
Wonderful words, Caralyn! Amen. Me, too. I need much more of that. Have been thinking a little (not enough) along those lines lately.
thank you so much Ted!!! glad it resonated with you 🙂 this is a great time to work on it with it being the Easter season! 🙂 that’s what I’m telling myself haha Hugs and love xox
So glad He met you were in the pew! That’s just like His great love.
Praying for the two you!
He loves you, Caralyn! <3
Thanks so much Gail:) I appreciate the prayers so much! Sending some up for you as well! Hugs and love xox
How kind and thoughtful to lift my name to Him.
<3 Thank you!
Absolutely! 🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼
I’ve only ever rarely seen a nun in public…
Yeah, they are quite a beautiful sight to behold! thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
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You got the truth here! It’s not knowing about God, it’s knowing Him. So refreshing to know there are still young women out there who want to know and experience HIs presence in their life. You are an encouragement to this old woman.
Thanks Barbara! You’re on a reading roll! And thank you so much for your kind words. I’m glad this resonated with you:) big hugs to you xox
Hi. You say God has a sense of humour. I unfortunately realised this a while ago. I.e. my life. I genuinely feel like my life is God’s little joke. Somewhere between that and Job. I’m gonna be honest: I’m struggling. Sorry to put this on you but anything to help me in my struggle to hang on? xx
Thank you so much for sharing your story. I’m sorry that you’re struggling. When I’ve struggled in the past I have literally had to just cling to Jesus by my fingernails and remember that He’s carrying me. Surround yourself with people who love you. Hang in there.
Thank you so much for replying. Your story is amazing. And you’re amazing. But right now I feel like I’m drowning. And I’m trying to remember the love I had for God. But I feel so betrayed by him. And it hurts so much!! And I think that’s adding to my pain at the moment. :'(
Oh my heart is just going out to you. Just remember that He’s going through this with you. Sending all my love, friend. xox
This is such a refreshing post. So true that peace “only comes from resting in His love.” So often we look for the peace and happiness in all the wrong places.
Thank you so much Rebecca!! Amen to that. So glad you stopped by! Hugs and love xox
A heart at peace is a happy heart. Surrender to God, tell Him to help you find the partner of His choice and to make it obvious to you so you won’t fob him off. My daughter hates cooking and housework, she is so engrossed in her career she doesn’t have the time nor the passion for either. My daughter loves visiting grandma when she can, grandma was worried about her being single, grandma always prayed that she find a partner who could cook. Six years ago through a friend of hers, she met a chef who loves both cooking and cleaning and adores our beautiful daughter. I’m a romantic, so when he asked my husband first for permission to marry her and then flew to Paris last November, to surprise our daughter who was on a business trip by proposing to her on her 33rd birthday, I was besotted when she rang me in the middle of the night. He was an atheist but now he is marrying her in the catholic church. So God not only answered her prayers through my mother but mine as well. They a having a romantic style wedding in March 2019. Praise be to God and His Son Jesus Christ.
Yes it is!! Thank you so much for this beautiful response. That is the perfect example of “a lid for every pot!” haha So happy for her and your family! God is good!!! hugs xo