Pallium Path: Jesus the Magnet

(Photos by André Escaleira, Jr.)

Walking through Rome this afternoon was surreal.

We’d only been here a few hours. It was a hot, sticky day, and the sun beat down from above with a vengeance. We took cover in an alley, where shade offered us its cool reprieve. We were on our way to Mass, following the tour guide.

Suddenly, the alley opened up. As my eyes adjusted to the sun and the setting, they nearly couldn’t believe what was before them: the St. Peter Basilica.

How did we end up here?

Of course, the practical and logistical answer is that we got on a plane, flew across the world, got in a taxi and walked. Here we are.

But there’s a deeper spiritual reality that Archbishop James Golka emphasized in his homily during the opening Mass of this Pallium Pilgrimage.

“We are here because God called us to be here,” he said. “That means something much different than I just decided to go on my own.”

The fact that Jesus called this group together means that he has something in store — not just for those of us physically present in Rome with the archbishop, but also those faithful following along at home.

“Jesus is a magnet,” Archbishop James Golka said. “The most natural thing you can do is go to him.”

Whether in the Eternal City or in Colorado, Jesus’ call remains the same: “Come to me.” “Follow me.” His promise remains the same: “I came that they might have life, and have it in abundance.”

No matter where we are — physically or spiritually — Jesus continues to draw us to himself, like the most powerful magnet on the market. The most natural thing we can do is go to him.

As you read this today, take a moment to consider how Jesus might be calling you today. How is he drawing you nearer to him?

Know of our prayers for you. Please pray for us, too.