Giving Nothing and Gaining Everything: It's at least an intelligible decision!

It was pointed out to me, it's not really proper to talk about personal vocations (married, priesthood, religious call) around things we actually have given up!  Because in the end, anything compared to the infinite and divine is well minuscule/nothing.

Have you ever heard someone give a testimony about how they lived before Christ surrounded by their success in their  job, money, and/or life style; only to have them proceed with the need to sacrifice that job, money, and/or lifestyle for the Lord? (You can also see this as a secular argument when someone goes from the single life to the married life; side note, watch Family Man where Nicholas cage struggles to pass on success for the sake of the family)  They talk like they GAVE everything up for their relationship with The Lord!  But in all reality compared to what they have and will receive is infinite. 

This where we need to step in and remind them of this fact (maybe with the same attitude): "So you gave up really nothing for the sake of everything.  If anything, your decision was somewhat intelligible and nothing else!"

Yesterday on Aug. 4th, 2013 I declared to the Church and was received by the hands of Bishop Joseph Siegel (representing the Church) my candidacy for the priesthood.  For many out there, this may bit of a surprise, for it was quite a surprise to myself as well, only making the decision to re-enter only 4 months ago.  To receive candidacy for the priesthood was my first act as a seminarian for the Diocese of Joliet.  To declare candidacy is not usually your first act as a seminarian, but because I had been previously in seminary formation, I was able to pick up right where I left off! Let's just say there was some anxiety exclaiming to myself, "what am I doing???"  But by the end of the Mass, the Lord once again offered me His peace.   In less then 2 years, if the Lord continues what he started, I will be a Deacon, and in less than 3 years a Priest. 

At this point, I could talk about all the sacrifices I am making by entering the seminary for the Catholic Church.  But having amazing friends like you! I hear your response loud and clear; "So you gave up really nothing for the sake of everything.  If anything, your decision was somewhat intelligible and nothing else!"  What I have to offer to the Lord is little compared to what He is offering me in return and I consider myself quite an intelligible person! So the decision was quite easy!  :)
Please continue to pray for me!