This can happen in any aspect of life, it’s not only church. We hear all the time about people who feel like they want to take a job that uproots everyone to a far away place. or study abroad, despite their parents’ fear, or decides to forego a medical treatment because they just don’t want to go through with it.
In all of these cases people are told to “just do what’s best for YOU. Forget everyone else. Be true to yourself”.
The fact is, that when people take a step toward God, it’s less a choice than a calling.
I’m not a fan of “feelings” because we know how feelings can lead us down wonky paths.
But truth, on the other had…well, truth is something unwavering. Truth is what people seek, because a life without truth is pretty unsatisfactory.
If the OP is embarking on this journey to truth alone, yes, it’s sad, and can often be misunderstood. Family members who are not particularly involved in the “God thing” don’t see it as moving to truth and being a better person,. They see it as a step AWAY from them. Why do we need God? We have each other.
Catholics believe that their relationship with God manifests itself positively in the lives of the world at large. Christ didn’t minister to individuals alone. He reached out to whole nations. We are called to love not just God, but everyone, the world, the environment, our family, our pets/animals that we are to protect from harm.
When a person becomes a Catholic, they are part of a historical body of people striving to make the world a better place, worship God well, and ultimately become part of the communion of Saints for eternity. Our family or friends might not get it right now…but that’s part of the process. When they see our lives positively impacted, the positive outcome, the charity and peace that comes forth, then they begin to understand that being a believer is not a negative. They experience whatever Mass they may attend in a new light, with new eyes. Or they may want to see what it’s all about. Knowledge and tolerance is always a good thing.
More importantly, they become OPEN to God. And really, that’s what God asks of us. Be open to him. Be aware of his presence and plan for us. Be aware that he calls us to the table of Eucharist, to eat the Lamb of God, and be healed, whole, and happy.
Life’s hard. Entering the Church give respite from the trials. Strength for the journey. Salve for the soul. Peace to the trembling heart. Joyful hope in eternal life.
Promise of salvation. Promise of covenant. Promise of love. Freely given, never forced.
I pray that the OP be at peace…and continue on the path. His family will begin to understand why he is beloved of them. They will see his beautiful soul.
