The influence of religion has been declining in the United States for decades, leaving a significant void in our lives. As humans, we naturally seek fulfillment beyond ourselves; while temporary satisfaction can be found in created goods and relationships, our hearts long for more. In the past, a society centered around the worship of God directed people towards the divine, but now, that guidance is harder to find.
Yet, this persistent longing reminds us that we are made for more, leading us to consider our vocation.
God calls, and we answer. God calls because we are made for Him, and we respond because we are made for Him.
The Spirituality of Discernment
Discerning a vocation is part of the Christian life. It involves seeking and responding to the grace that God offers, aiming to conform more closely to Christ.
- Trust the Practices of Faith: Rely on the tried and true practices of our faith:
- The sacraments (especially the Eucharist and confession)
- Regular prayer
- Silence
- Spiritual and theological reading
- Devotionals
- Spiritual direction
- Deepen Friendship with Christ: Discerning a vocation means deepening your friendship with Christ and learning His will for you.
Discern by Asking Questions
- Focus on Being, Not Doing: In prayer, instead of asking, “Lord, what do you want me to do?” ask, “Lord, who do you want me to be?” Our actions follow who we are, and a vocation is about being rather than doing.
- Receive God’s Love and Mercy: A vocation is about receiving God’s love and mercy and becoming a saint by His grace. Only when we have received His love and mercy are we able to hear his call and follow it confidently.
- Grace for the Present: Grace is given for actual, particular actions, not future contingents. God provides the grace to follow Him now, even in small steps like researching a religious order or calling a vocation director.
Examine Your Desires and Abilities
- Trust Your Desires and Abilities: Use your desires and abilities as initial indicators of where God might be calling you.
- Research and Seek Advice: Do your research, seek wise advice, pray, and act.
- Trust in God’s Guidance: Above all, trust that God is calling and leading you.
The decline of faith in our world is regrettable, but it doesn’t mean that God is withdrawing. Often, times of need produce the greatest saints. By engaging in the process of discernment with trust and openness, you can find your vocation and fulfill God’s plan for your life.
Additional Resources
Check out Fr. Mike Schmitz’s tips on discerning your vocation for even more.
For more great Catholic resources, check out our podcast, which features talks from our SEEK conference, and our YouTube channel for videos and more!
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