Why do we exist? What gives us meaning?

When we discover our “why” to live, our “how” to live will come naturally. The desire for God is written in the human heart, because man is created by God and for God; and God never ceases to draw man to himself. Only in God will he find the truth and happiness he never stops searching for. (Catechism of the Catholic Church 27) Indeed, our deepest fulfilment comes when we live for Christ.

It saddens me sometimes to have friends telling me that they do not know their purpose in life. They are so intelligent, achieve stellar academic results, are in key leadership positions, are multi-talented and have great personalities. But they have yet to know God. It is only when we have a relationship with our creator, then we will come to realise our purpose in life.

Each one of us has a vocation, a call from God to a distinctive state of life where we can reach holiness. Above all, we are called to love so that we can get to know Christ through the people we minister to. When we intentionally align our will with God’s love, we will discover our true vocation. Despite the different vocations – be it priesthood, family life or even dedicated singlehood to the Lord – we are all called to use our gifts and talents in service to God while serving in our profession or family. Thus, it is vital that we collaborate with the grace of God in order to recognise our calling, learn to love and eventually minister to our other brothers and sisters in Christ.

Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire. (Saint Catherine of Siena)

We can only find joy in living if we discover our true purpose. It is only when we know in our hearts what anchors us then we will have the courage to stand firm in our beliefs and decisions even when the world persecutes us.

Who do you stand for?

By Rebecca Tan