A Wonderful Adventure

There’s a quote from Saint John Paul II in which he says, “Life with Christ is a wonderful adventure.”  It’s a simple quote, yet filled with so much truth.  Many people have the mindset that following Jesus, being Catholic, and having faith is boring.  They think that it’s just about following a bunch of rules that are restrictive and that interfere with the ways they want to live.  Personally, being Catholic is the most exciting part of my life.  When I think of the best, coolest, and most fun things I’ve done in my life, most of the experiences that come to mind are opportunities I’ve had only because of my faith.  Colorado Leadership retreats, a pilgrimage to Washington D.C. for the March for Life, college mission trips, the SEEK Conference, and Biking for Babies are some of the big things that stand out.  These are in addition to the countless smaller activities, gatherings, and events that happen on a more regular basis.  The best things we can do are those which are pure, wholesome, and holy things that lead us closer to Christ. 

​There are so many opportunities our faith presents us that people are missing out on.  People often dismiss the experiences and opportunities that will fill them up and help them grow in their faith, believing that these kinds of things are dull and boring.  The truth is, these kinds of opportunities are the experiences that allow us to enjoy full, abundant, and adventurous lives, which is what God wants for us.  To put it simply, trying to enjoy life apart from Christ is very difficult, yet this is what so many people do.  Pushing faith aside prevents us from experiencing all that is good and holy.

When I think about some of the best experiences of my life, several common denominators stand out.  My favorite experiences have been ones that involve pure and wholesome fun, which means they were aligned with my morals and did not compromise my values.  Also, these experiences have involved a strong community who share the same faith and have the same beliefs, which makes it easier to grow deeper in faith and be encouraged and inspired.  Another factor in these experiences is the Holy Spirit.  Reflecting on each of these experiences, I have noticed that they were all events in which it was very evident that the Holy Spirit was present and at work.  Love, joy, peace, and goodness were fruits that were strong parts of each of these events.  In addition, in each of these events, the focus was on Jesus and centered on encountering Him.  Opportunities I’ve had due to my faith are the ones that stand out as the best for the sole reason that they are unlike anything else in this world.

Without my faith, I know for a fact I would not have had nearly as many amazing opportunities as I have.  Many of the best memories and times of growth are thanks to being Catholic.  The greatest adventures you will ever have are when you choose to fully and wholeheartedly follow Christ.  Open yourselves up to Jesus and the opportunities to encounter Him and trust that your life will be filled with excitement and adventure like you’ve never experienced before.  Will you follow where He leads?