Today’s reflection in the Hallow app was titled, “The Search for Shelter”. They were talking about Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter when Mary was about to give birth. I tried to imagine their state of mind as they knocked on door after door, perhaps praying that someone would let them in. If it were me, I would have wondered why God was putting us through all of this, when we said yes to Him and have been trying to obey Him every step of the way. As a matter of fact, when I was caring for my parents, I thought this often – probably more often than I should have. But Mary and Joseph kept on searching until they found a place to enter. Perhaps an animal’s stable wasn’t what they would have liked. Or perhaps they were simply grateful to God for taking care of their needs. I imagined their relief when they were finally able to get situated for the birth of their son – God’s Son – God Himself. Perhaps they thought that if this is what He chose, it must the right thing. I thought about where I find shelter. I have always found serenity when I go into my bedroom and close the door. And I have always felt a profound sense of peace in a church. No matter what the size, style, layout, decor, a church feels like Heaven touching Earth to me. This photo from inside the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier in Dyersville, IA, is so full of scenes, it could take hours to notice all the details. On their website is a tour and explanation of the remarkable artwork.

I Found God today in the shelter and peace of a church.