Evangelizing Outreach / Anita Bardo

Our call to discipleship means being present in the moments that matter

“Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself. Sufficient for a day is its own evil” (Mt 6:34).

In the above verse, Jesus reminds us to be encouraged to focus on each day and be present in the moment, rather than being anxious about the future.

Being present in the moments that matter means to fully exist in what is happening around us and appreciate the little things in life. It involves being aware of our surroundings, our thoughts and our emotions. It requires mindfulness—properly understood—and conscious efforts to live in the moment, rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.

Being present allows me to appreciate the little moments when unexpected encounters happen—at the grocery store waiting to check out; in the bleachers at a football game, talking about the calls the referees made; at Mass welcoming new visitors; or even with my grandsons. It is through these small encounters that God helps make a difference for good in my life.

I remember a few weeks ago I picked up my grandson from school, and we began to talk about his day. In the middle of the conversation, a bug was on the window, and he became scared. I said, “Don’t be scared, bugs are God’s friends, and they are not here to harm us, only to help protect us.”

My grandson, who is 4, said, “OK, Gammy. God’s friend, can you go away right now?” I smiled. I know that this small moment will continue to be in his mind, and maybe he’ll share it with his friends.

Reflecting on my four adult children, I realize how important the time we spend together is. Each moment is an opportunity for me to listen to their needs and understand the challenges they face in life. There are tough days when they may feel down, and I want to be there for them.

On the other hand, there are also many good days filled with joy and laughter, and I cherish those moments. I know that being present means more than just being in the same room; it means I need to be both physically and emotionally available to them. I want them to feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings with me.

Whether it’s a simple talk about raising their young boys, to “Mom, does this outfit look OK?” to a song or word that spoke to them during worship, these moments strengthen our bond and create lasting memories. My children mean the world to me, and I am grateful for the time we share together.

Pope Leo XIV presided at a Mass on July 20 at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Pancras, located in Albano Laziale, near his summer residence in Castel Gandolfo, Italy. In his homily, he encouraged the faithful to “set aside moments of silence, moments of prayer, times in which, quieting noise and distractions, we recollect ourselves before God in simplicity of heart.”

Setting aside those times to reflect on my daily work at the archdiocese, I do this during my personal prayer time, daily Mass, adoration, praying the rosary and Divine Mercy chaplet, thanking God for all his goodness and mercy.

Being present in the moments that matter means a lot! Evangelizing and being a disciple of Christ is being present each day of our lives. To build relationships, build community, and to be our authentic selves.
 

(Anita Bardo is the archdiocesan coordinator of evangelization and discipleship.) †