Did you ever just get a ‘vibe’ from someone? For being something so silent, it can make a powerful impression. On a recent flight, I was surprised to suddenly feel a certain vibe from the couple I sat next to. I was amazed at what I could tell just by sitting near them. Unfortunately, this negative vibe was so strong that I could really sense it…feel it. I don’t think it was directed toward me, but as I gave it some thought, I couldn’t help but wonder (and worry a little): What vibes do I give?
Wouldn’t it be wonderful if the vibes we gave were the vibes of the love and grace of Christ? So strong that someone could sense it, feel it, and be moved by it. We’re guided to this ‘vibe of Christ’ in this Sunday’s second reading:
All bitterness, fury, anger, shouting, and reviling must be removed from you, along with all malice. And be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving one another as God has forgiven you in Christ. So be imitators of God, as beloved children, and live in love, as Christ loved us…. (Eph 4:31—5:2)
If we remembered these words in the little things we do, then we would most certainly give the vibe of Christ. Even when we are in need of the grace to be lifted and healed ourselves, we have a choice. On that flight, I noticed that it only took very small gestures or actions (or lack of them) to give off a vibe strong enough to affect me; a vibe that sent a message without any words. It caused me to note that the small gestures and expressions I make might be conveying more than I realize. Then I recalled St. (Mother) Teresa of Calcutta’s quote: “Do small things with great love.” This is easy to remember, easy to do, and an easy place for us to start. We can further the Gospel message of the love and peace of Christ in small ways by our words, our deeds, and our vibes!
Journeying to Grace 