In a world where material possessions are often equated with security, faith anchors us with a priceless sense of detachment, trust, and security as we navigate through life’s uncertainties.

I apologize writing this reflection rather too late, and also if my thoughts appear a bit disorganized at the moment. As I pen these words, I find myself in a busy hotel lobby in Los Angeles, trying to plan my next move. My schedule while in California is packed with ministerial responsibilities, including delivering a sermon in memory of a dear friend in Los Angeles, which I completed yesterday, and leading a retreat for seminarians in Fresno in the upcoming weeks. In between these commitments, I’ve also planned some days of solitude and prayer on a mountain in Northern California.

However, since landing in California four days ago, a key component has gone missing—my suitcase. This essential item, carrying all the necessary tools for my tasks, hasn’t arrived. I was assured by United Airlines that it would be delivered four days ago, then again two days ago, and once again yesterday, but it still hasn’t shown up. As of now, there’s no word on when it might arrive, or even if it will. This unexpected predicament has left me in a bit of a quandary, forcing me to adapt and reflect on the unpredictability of life.

Faith in Moments of Uncertainty

These moments of uncertainty remind me of the profound impact faith can have on our lives. We often believe we need all our tools and resources before setting out on a journey. Yet, sometimes, when stripped of our worldly goods, we’re given a priceless lesson—to let divine grace guide us to our final destination.

In Genesis 18:1-15, we see Abraham, unperturbed by the unfamiliar, welcome three strangers with open arms and generous hospitality. Little did he know, these strangers were divine messengers with news of his future son’s birth, despite his and his wife’s advanced age. This tale highlights how faith can make the seemingly impossible possible, and how yielding to divine guidance can lead to miracles.

The Gospel of Matthew 8:5-17 echoes faith-leading sentiment. The centurion, with unshakeable faith in Jesus, believed that even a mere word from Him could cure his paralyzed servant. Jesus admired his faith, asserting that he hadn’t seen such tenacious belief throughout Israel. The centurion’s faith steered him, culminating in his servant’s healing.

The Bible is replete with such instances of individuals who anchored their lives in faith. Whether it was Noah constructing an ark, Abraham leaving his homeland, Moses liberating the Israelites from Egypt, or David overcoming Goliath, their unfaltering faith guided them through daunting challenges.

Faith-Anchored Security is the Priceless

In our times and lives, we often equate security and comfort with material possessions. However, these tangible assets can vanish in an instant, leaving us disoriented and vulnerable. That’s why we must learn to detach from these external dependencies and let divine guidance illuminate our path.

As I sit here, sans my suitcase, I’m learning this lesson of detachment firsthand. I’m letting go of my reliance on physical objects for comfort and turning to God for support and direction. I trust that His grace will lead me to my ultimate destination and equip me to conquer any hurdles along the way. And still make the best of the moment I have to trust Him.

In essence, faith is an invaluable compass we must learn to use in our daily lives. By detaching from worldly possessions and entrusting our path to God, we allow His grace to steer us towards our final destination. In doing so, we find the strength to overcome any obstacles we encounter. As we journey through life, may we always remember to anchor ourselves in faith and let divine guidance chart our course.

Finally, be reminded of our ministry’s 10th anniversary celebration in North Carolina. We’e love to meet you in person. Please register for the free event here.

God love you. God bless you.

[Readings: Genesis 18:1-15; Matthew 8:7-17]

Today’s Daily Inspiration

Faith is God’s special gift to us. With faith, the goal for which we are made is revealed. Scripture says: “My righteous one lives by their faith” (Rm 1:17)