When do you get gas?

"I'm only at half a tank...I better go get gas!" Oh man, this phrase I have said to my husband a few times before. I have never been one to wait to get to near empty before filling up, maybe a quarter of a tank every so often. I have great peace knowing that I am able to drive a long distance and perhaps in areas that are not as comfortable or that I'm not as familiar with. I know that regardless of what happens I will be okay because I have a full tank of gas now.

In our spiritual lives it can bring peace of mind when we turn to God in moments that we are comfortably "half a tank full." God is providing and all is well we are ready and prepared for whatever may be coming our way. But, when we are nearly empty it may be exhausting to try to turn comfortably to our God. And depending upon how empty we get - we may run out completely and need someone to push us or come to us to help us get back full.

Frequent practice of prayer and the Sacraments when things are going well will help us when things are turning uncomfortable or not well. When getting in the habit now, as life's challenges come and seasons change, we are already established in our healthy habits and routines of filling up the tank. So, if God is asking of more of us, we are ready.

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Lord, there are times I am nearly full and still seeking you comfortably. Thank you for being present in those moments. When the tank is running low and I'm nearly on fumes, remind me to fill up on your love through prayer and the Sacraments - especially Reconciliation and the Eucharist. In your name, Amen.

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Simply a little pencil in God's hand,

Elizabeth