January 13, 2019
“Holiness is boldness, an impulse to evangelize and to leave a mark in this world...
How often are we tempted to keep close to the shore! Yet the Lord calls us to
put out into the deep and let down our nets.”
Gaudete et Exsultate #129-130
Last Thursday, I moved to Northern Kentucky to take a job as a Development Officer at Dynamic Catholic. Admittedly, I never imagined myself working in development or moving to Kentucky, but admittedly, I’m glad I’m here.
For three and a half years, I was blessed beyond measure to live in Northern Virginia and work for the Diocese of Arlington. During that time I was able to form so many meaningful and lasting friendships, and grow as a person. God was so good to me by allowing me to be his hands and feet for the church, and to encounter Him in so many incredible ways. But for the past few months, I’ve felt a tug on my heart to grow in a deeper relationship with Him, and encounter Him in new and meaningful ways. The initial tug led me to leave my first adult job as The Young Adult Coordinator for the Diocese, and do so without a backup plan. From there, I was led to a six month period of radical discernment, and forced to trust in ways I hadn’t before. Jesus was calling me to something special, but I didn’t know what.
Then I found myself on Dynamic Catholic’s website, and looking at their various job openings. From there, I decided I would apply for their Development Officer position. Admittedly, I had applied for so many jobs during the few months prior, that this was seen by me as just another application. That mindset quickly changed after I had my initial phone screening. I found myself actually excited about the potential opportunity to be working for such an inspiring company. From there it finally led to an in-person interview and an opportunity to see the office itself; I was giddy upon my return home.
I saw an organization that shared my love for Catholicism but was also filled with inspiring people. I saw a future. But through that all, I was forced to make a choice. When I was finally offered the job, I had before me three other job opportunities, with two of them keeping me in Virginia, in the place I had called home. I was conflicted, as you can imagine.
And this is where Pope Francis’ quote from above came into play. I could have easily stayed in Virginia, continued to live with and near most of my dearest friends, and given glory to God by doing one of the jobs there. But I also had the option to move to Kentucky and do the uncomfortable, to make a bold move, and let God bless it. Jesus was inviting me out to the deep, and I felt a tug to follow.
The decision to move eight hours away from a place I had come to know wasn’t easy or even one I was planning to make, but it was the decision I felt called to make. And now I’m here, placing my nets into the deep water. I can’t wait to see what I catch!
P.S.
Pray for me and all who work at Dynamic Catholic, and I will pray for you.
God Alone.
