Last Sunday, Father Tim invited us to reflect on what it means to fully surrender to God’s grace. He shared from his own experience during a thirty-day silent retreat, where he was challenged to spend five hours a day in prayer and only one hour in conversation. At first, the experience felt overwhelming, but he had a vision during his prayer time: people floating joyfully down a river on inflatables, smiling and at ease. He realized that these people represented the saints—those who had surrendered and allowed God’s grace to carry them.
“If we really want to get the most out of our spiritual journey, we need to surrender. We need to give up control and just jump into the river and allow God’s grace to lead us.”
Father Tim explained that hesitation is natural. Whether it’s committing to a relationship, giving generously, or stepping into faith, we often cling to the comfort of the shore, afraid to let go. Yet God calls us to trust Him, promising that His river of grace is the most rewarding journey we can take.
He connected this imagery to Ezekiel’s vision of water flowing from the Temple in Jerusalem. Though it begins as a small trickle, it grows into a mighty river that brings life to the once-dead waters of the Dead Sea. In the same way, Jesus, as the new Temple, offers living water that transforms our hearts, bringing love, joy, peace, patience, generosity, and healing.
“Whoever believes in me… out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.”
Father Tim encouraged us to engage with this river through practical discipleship practices. He highlighted three key ways:
- Celebration of the Mass – Coming together weekly to encounter Jesus in the Word and Eucharist, nourishing our souls and strengthening our community.
- Confession and the Sacraments – Receiving God’s grace and forgiveness, allowing us to be restored and refreshed in our spiritual lives.
- Sacrificial Giving – Offering something valuable, not out of obligation, but as an act of love that stretches us and mirrors Christ’s own surrender.
“Sacrificial giving is giving in a way that stretches us… because that’s when love becomes real.”
Father Tim reminded us that Jesus isn’t looking for perfect swimmers—He’s calling us right where we are. Some of us may just be dipping our toes in the water, others may be struggling against the current, and some may be ready to dive in completely. The invitation is the same: to experience the abundant life God has for us, filled with freedom, joy, and transformation.
He concluded with encouragement to take a step of faith this week: attend Mass regularly, experience confession, give sacrificially, or explore programs like Camino or Alpha. Each step is an opportunity to let the river of grace flow into our daily lives, transforming our relationships, work, and communities.
“Don’t just get your toes wet—grab your inflatable and jump right into the river of life.”
By surrendering control and embracing God’s grace, we allow the living water of Jesus to refresh our hearts, bear fruit, and bring life to the world around us.