May 19, 2007: By the grace of God, I was ordained a deacon.
It’s been 15 years? Where has the time gone?
It’s been the greatest adventure — the second greatest, really, after my marriage — and like that one, I wouldn’t have missed a minute of it.
I love being a deacon. Deo gratias!
The inimitable Dr. Seuss captured it well for all of us in Oh, the Places You’ll Go:
“You’ll get mixed up, of course, as you already know.
You’ll get mixed up with many strange birds as you go.
So be sure when you step. Step with care and great tact
and remember that Life’s a Great Balancing Act.
Just never forget to be dexterous and deft.
And never mix up your right foot with your left.”
I’ve made that mistake a few times — and a lot of others — but somehow I’ve managed to stay upright (most of the time, anyway.)
It hasn’t always been easy:
“You will come to a place where the streets are not marked.
Some windows are lighted. but mostly they’re darked.
But mostly they’re darked.
A place you could sprain both your elbow and chin!
Do you dare to stay out? Do you dare to go in?
How much can you lose? How much can you win?”
Oh, the places I’ve been!
Grace is everywhere. And thank God for that.
What a joyous and amazing journey — and I thank anyone who is reading this who has come along for the ride.
I can’t wait to see what the next 15 years bring.
Meantime, in the short video below are some memories I of the places I’ve been. Enjoy.
Finally, if you have a sec, whisper up a prayer for all those who are beginning their journey into Holy Orders this season — soon-to-be priests and deacons. Help pray them on their way, and thank God for all those who are hearing the small, still voice of God and saying, “Yes.”
To every one of them, I just have to say: oh, the places you’ll go!
