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      The Role of Joy in Discernment 

In many Christmas cards we receive, and in Christmas carols we sing at this time of year, we read the word "joy." As Christians we are joyful that a Savior has been born. 

As a woman Religious in a congregation founded by Jesuit priest, Father Jean-Pierre Medaille, joy is an important part of Ignatian discernment in decision making in one's life. Yesterday we received the fall 2019 issue of Human Development, a scholarly journal "for people involved in the work of fostering the human and spiritual growth of others." There is an article in this issue entitled "Discernment: A Partnership with God" by Marina McCoy, a professor at Boston College. The author says there are three simple questions for discerning (according to Fr. Michael Himes):

1. What gives you joy?
2. What are you good at?
3. What does the world need you to do? 

These are used particularly for Boston College students to help discern their life paths after graduation. Many of the students go on to volunteer a year in the Jesuits Volunteer Corps. 





In my own life as a Sister of St. Joseph I see joy when I see beauty in nature, as in the flowers photographed in this blog entry or at the sea shore, but also when I see beauty in the form of selfless love and service for others, self-sacrificing work such as that done by firefighters, health care personnel, dedicated teachers, administrators, clergy, and honest public officials. 






The "what am I good at?" question will vary from person to person. You may be very good at some things that do not bring you joy, or at several things that do bring you joy. High school students have their whole professional life ahead of them so their options are almost unlimited. Adults have to make a choice for one above other good options. A sign of maturity is being able to make a commitment to something for life, whether it is marriage, priesthood, consecrated life, or a profession. 

The third question, "what does the world need you to do?" is where the help of another or your local community or a good spiritual director is needed. There are so many needs in our world today. But where do the needs of the world, your talents and gifts, and joy, intersect? 

Sometimes in times of transition, when nothing is familiar to us and we seem to be lost, all we can do  is the "next right thing" as the song in the recent Disney movie, "Frozen II", says. 

During  this Advent, as we wait for the coming of Christ at Christmas, let us discern, in relationship with God, what is God's will for us. We know that God loves us and will guide us.
Like the astrologers from the East, may we follow the Star and offer our praises to the Christ Child, that He may kindle joy in our hearts as we sing God's praises for showing us how much God loves us!

Peace and joy!

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