Seeing God’s Hand at Work in My Life - part 2
 Fr Alvan Ibeh
St Peter’s Church, Gorleston
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28 (NIV)?
Looking at the many things that have happened in your life so far, adding those that have already occurred in your life this year, do you believe what St Paul said in the above scripture? Remember, I asked this question in the previous article. Will you say you have a story or stories of times when you saw God’s hand working in your life? After something happened, you sat down and reflected and concluded that “this indeed the handiwork of God”
A friend shared an experience with me, and I have taken her permission to share her story with you all. After reading this article, I would also like you to share your own story with me. You never know; your story may go a long way to bless someone’s heart. Here is my friend’s story, whose identity I will keep anonymous
“Good morning, Fr Alvan. I hope you are keeping well! I just wanted to share a story with you. It was the first Christmas since Mum died, so we decided to go away. As a family, we had many conversations about possible destinations. Our two boys are on the autistic spectrum, and it was tough to find somewhere that everyone would enjoy
I wanted to go somewhere peaceful and restful, but unfortunately, that wouldn’t be suitable for the boys (who would just be sitting around bored). Also, it was difficult to go to some destinations at this time of year (leading up to Christmas). So, eventually, we decided upon Las Vegas! The boys were very excited to go, and I reconciled myself to the fact that I would just make the best of it
I found two local churches, the Cathedral of the Guardian Angel and the Shrine of the Holy Redeemer, and I attended Mass every day—it was wonderful!
Both churches are pretty new and ‘modern looking’ but they were wonderful. I will send some pictures soon. What struck me is that GOD IS EVERYWHERE if we only care to look
Las Vegas is not a place where you would think you would encounter God- yet he was very present and working most powerfully! Praise Him”
The part that said, “I think what struck me is that God is everywhere if we only care to look,” got me nodding, and I immediately asked her permission to share her story
I have also had many experiences that made me see God’s hand at work. This helps me see whatever happens to me from a positive perspective. This is because no matter what happens or is happening, I know that God is aware of it; I know He is entirely in charge of it, and I know that if He allows it to happen, it is for a reason. I know He knows the best way to figure it out; all He wants from me is absolute trust and dependence. So, knowing all these things makes me feel relaxed in the face of challenging times
Do you have a story to share? Feel free to do so at alvan.ibeh@rcdea.org.uk. Hearing how God has moved in other people’s lives can help you recognize His work in your own life. I pray that 2025 you will see God’s hand in every situation. Amen
Follow me on my social media handles for my messages of hope: Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram (@voiceofhopefamily). To get a copy of my book, “A Fountain of Hope” visit this link, also available on Amazon
first published in Catholic Diocese of East Anglia newspaper
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