Farmer of Hearts - How Not to Miss God’s Voice

In the Gospel of Mark, chapter 10, verses 17 to 22, it is written:

“As he (Jesus) was setting out on a journey, a man ran up and knelt before him, and asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. You know the commandments: ‘You shall not murder; You shall not commit adultery; You shall not steal; You shall not bear false witness; You shall not defraud; Honor your father and mother.’” He said to him, “Teacher, I have kept all these since my youth.” Jesus, looking at him, loved him and said, “You lack one thing; go, sell what you own, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” When he heard this, he was shocked and went away grieving, for he had many possessions.” (Mark 10:17-22)

The encounter between this rich man and Jesus is recorded in three Gospels (cf. Matt 19:16-22, Mark 10:17-22, Luke 18:18-23), showing the importance of this event. The Gospel of Matthew mentions that this man was a young man, so we often call this rich man "the rich young man".

From the detailed description in this passage from the Gospel of Mark, we know that Jesus had a good impression of this man. Because this man not only recognized that Jesus was the one he should be looking for, but he also humbly knelt down and asked Jesus for advice. The question he raised also pleased and consoled Jesus, because he recognized that the ultimate goal in life is to "inherit eternal life." And he was ready to listen to Jesus’ guidance and determined to live it out. From his response to Jesus, we know that the rich young man expected Jesus’ answer to be to a higher standard than the commandments he had been able to keep since his youth. Therefore, he was ready to accept the higher requirements of Jesus. This was a mature and rare display of faith that even impressed Jesus, who “looked at him intently and loved him.” Jesus admired the rich young man’s willingness to transcend himself for the higher goal of life, so Jesus frankly pointed out to him that the one thing he still lacked was to sell everything he owned and give to the poor!

Here, not only did Jesus point out how the rich young man could inherit eternal life, but He also pointed out the only way for him. If there were another alternative, given Jesus' love for him, why wouldn't He have also directed him to that path?

The rich young man ran to Jesus with joy, but as soon as he heard Jesus’ answer, which came like a bolt from the blue, he “went away grieving”. His hundred and eighty degree turn not only made Jesus heartbroken, but also those of us who are meditating on the Gospel feel sad and wonder why this story didn't have a more favorable outcome. No doubt, it’s because Jesus' answer struck his weak point, "because he had many possessions"! From this, it can be seen that Jesus has high expectations for those who follow Him, those who aspire to inherit eternal life. This is a fact that we as Christians cannot deny. The most challenging hurdle in this journey is the “wealth” we accumulated in the present world. The more we possess, the harder it is to give them up. How can we then follow God easily, freely, and decisively, let alone carry the cross? If we only listen and understand in our minds but fail to act, Jesus can only watch us sadly as we walk away grieving with a sad face, and ultimately missing out on eternal life!

From this incident, we can be certain that there is no other way for us to inherit eternal life, no alternative path to the Kingdom of heaven. Furthermore, from Jesus' decisive and unambiguous expressions, we can sense the urgency in responding to His invitation. The response that Jesus requires is a resolute one, not a hesitant, lukewarm, or delayed reply. From this encounter between Jesus and the rich young man, the Lord’s intention could not be clearer!

Whether we admit it or not, we are all this rich young man. Jesus also loves us and invites us to humbly run to Him for guidance for our own salvation and to inherit eternal life.

Reflection

Have you ever felt hesitant to ask Jesus for advice because you didn’t want to give up the things you love and possess? Have you ever tried to avoid facing Jesus’ request or delayed responding to His invitation?

Now imagine that Jesus is looking at you, loving you, and asking you the same thing as He did to the rich young man. How would you respond to Him?

In silence, please look squarely at Jesus before you, and courageously invite Him to present His personal demands and calling for you.

Today’s Prayer

Lord Jesus, during today’s meditation, I saw the image of the rich young man in myself, which shocked and saddened me. I have never been so closely connected to the rich young man, to experience his excitement and expectations, but at the same time understand his inner struggles and disappointment. What really pains me is experiencing Your gaze, Your eyes full of hope, and ultimately, disappointment.

Lord, do You know? Your demands are indeed high! How can I muster the courage and ability to respond to You? In fact, I lack the courage to ask for Your help in responding! Do You understand?

I earnestly implore You now to let me remember Your disappointed and saddened expression as a reminder for me not to stray away from You and to respond positively to You as soon as possible! Lord, help me, I pray!

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The following is the “Farmer of Hearts: Finding God in All Things” team, including FLL staff and volunteers. Please kindly pray for them. May God protect them and sustain their physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

Project Manager: Michael Lam
Writer: Paul Yeung
Editors: Bonny Chan, Rosa Tse
English Editors: Bonny Chan, Paul Yeung
Mandarin Editor: Anthony X.
Cantonese Narrator: Margaret Woo
English Narrator: Bonny Chan
Mandarin Narrator: Rene Ren
Audio Editors: Fonte Ip, Sander Lee, Margaret Woo
YouTube Editors: Fonte Ip, Sander Lee, Arnold Chan
Graphics: Francis Lai, Rosa Tse
Website: Patricia Young, Angela Wong
Podcast: Angela Wong
Social Media: Yollie Leung, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse
Theme Music:
“Friends Only” by Introvert Pianist https://www.youtube.com/@introvertpianist
“Watercolor Lilies” by Aaron Kenny https://youtube.com/@contactkennya

How absurd it is for us Christians to find ourselves becoming God's greatest adversaries. There seems to be no conflict between choosing what you desire, and choosing what God desires. But the heart of the matter is this: what we think is good is often very different from what God thinks is good.

In the Gospel of Matthew, Chapter 6, verses 19 to 21, Jesus said: “ “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal; but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:19-21)

What does this Bible passage mean to us? We must acknowledge that our perspective is shallow, often fixating on immediate worldly matters, especially instant gratification, pleasures, and all the wealth that can be exchanged for these satisfactions. We are even willing to sacrifice some of the more important things in our lives, such as family and health, in exchange for what the Bible describes as "treasures on earth", things that we will eventually lose for various reasons. The enemy is well aware of our weaknesses, so it will attempt to disguise these things as beneficial to us, setting traps and patiently waiting for us to fall into its traps.

The result is that we no longer have time to get close to the One who can give us treasures in heaven. The scary thing is that these treasures on earth are the very places where the devil lurks with malicious intent. The last verse of this Bible passage teaches us that when our treasures belong to this world, our hearts are there as well. Then we will naturally look for treasures there and end up falling into a trap. We would rather seek to find these earthly treasures in all creation. Being deceived, we are ultimately unable to find God in all things (cf. Matthew 6:22-24).

On the contrary, Jesus said: “But strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33) These words of Jesus should bring us great joy and comfort, because this is the promise He gives us, the evidence of His love, and a guarantee for those who follow Him. It is something that no one or anything in the world can provide us. He will surely provide all our needs.

Does this mean that when we seek and follow God, He will provide us with all earthly treasures? I believe you are smart enough to know the answer. Although following God does not mean that God will definitely provide us with earthly treasures, when we have God and the tangible and intangible grace He bestows upon us, other things will become less important to us.

In fact, when you put God first, the world you perceive will become different because you will gradually see things through God's perspective. By then, although you may have less material possessions, your spiritual satisfaction will be richer than if you owned the entire world! This is the reason behind the testimonies we often hear from people who have chosen God: “When I have God, I have everything.”

Therefore, for those of us who believe in God, we should no longer live in contradictions. If we don't believe in eternal life, we can just focus on earthly desires and pleasures. However, if we believe in God and His promise of eternal life, recognizing that the desires of the flesh and the desires of the Holy Spirit are different, yet we still choose the desires of this world, we are essentially sacrificing the eternal treasures of heaven for the pursuit of transient worldly pleasures. Is it worth it?

In the Letter to the Galatians, chapter 5, verse 17, St. Paul says, “For what the flesh desires is opposed to the Spirit, and what the Spirit desires is opposed to the flesh; for these are opposed to each other, to prevent you from doing what you want.” (Galatians 5:17)

Reflection

Where do you think your treasure is?

When you make choices in life, do you feel that your perspective is usually shallow or far-sighted? Why?

Are you aware that earth and heaven, flesh and spirit, are constantly in conflict with each other in your life choices? Do you believe that when you choose the Kingdom of God and its righteousness, your other needs will be provided to you?

Today’s Prayer

Lord, although I know I should choose You, I often succumb to temptation. In life and in my actions, I choose myself, satisfying my desires and pursuing the treasures of this world. I am frustrated with my weakness and indecision. Please, once again, make me sober, help me realize that I have no reason not to choose You, and prevent me from yielding to my worldly desires. Do not let me stray from Your merciful gaze and betray the expectations You have for my repentance.

Lord, teach me to trust in You once again!

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The following is the “Farmer of Hearts: Finding God in All Things” team, including FLL staff and volunteers. Please kindly pray for them. May God protect them and sustain their physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

Project Manager: Michael Lam
Writer: Paul Yeung
Editors: Bonny Chan, Rosa Tse
English Editors: Bonny Chan, Paul Yeung
Mandarin Editor: Anthony X.
Cantonese Narrator: Margaret Woo
English Narrator: Bonny Chan
Mandarin Narrator: Rene Ren
Audio Editors: Fonte Ip, Sander Lee, Margaret Woo
YouTube Editors: Fonte Ip, Sander Lee, Arnold Chan
Graphics: Francis Lai, Rosa Tse
Website: Patricia Young, Angela Wong
Podcast: Angela Wong
Social Media: Yollie Leung, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse
Theme Music:
“Friends Only” by Introvert Pianist https://www.youtube.com/@introvertpianist
“Watercolor Lilies” by Aaron Kenny https://youtube.com/@contactkennya

Did the song "Need You Every Minute" that we used to reflect on and connect with our relationship with God yesterday give you a special, fresh, and warm feeling? I hope yesterday's experience allowed you to savour the realization that our personal relationship with God can be much like that between the best of friends or lovers—very human, affectionate, and sweet. This is especially true when both God and ourselves hold important roles and positions in each other's hearts; the love will be stronger and more sincere. This is also God’s will and desire.

The more we become aware of our need for God, the more significant His role in our hearts becomes, and the higher His position. As a result, our relationship with God becomes closer.

The more important the role, the higher the position, and the greater the expectations—that's only natural. God desires a relationship with us that is as intimate as that between husband and wife. In a marital relationship, the husband and wife hope to be irreplaceable in each other's eyes, and have a commitment that lasts a lifetime. Since we are most precious in God's eyes, and God is even willing to sacrifice His own life for us, doesn’t it make sense that He would want us to put Him above everything else?

Therefore, the first part of yesterday's third reflection question, "Do you hope to find the true ultimate love in your life?" is equivalent to asking: "Who do you hope to find among all things?" This "who" must be your ultimate love, and the crucial point is that this "who" should also be willing to put you first. This is a prerequisite for a healthy relationship.

So, these past two days, we embarked on a marvelous journey of exploration to find the object of our ultimate love in our lives and the true King who will never leave or forsake us. Whether we admit it or not, each of us has someone or something close to our hearts—perhaps a cherished individual or something we desire most in life. Let's explore the latter first.

Some people pursue health, some pursue pleasure, and some pursue a sense of success. These pursuits are understandable and everyone desires them. But when these things become the objects we spend our whole lives pursuing, have we considered the price we pay? Health, knowledge, pleasure, wealth, talent, achievement, self-esteem... which one is lasting and eternal? How much time and effort we invest in these things is equivalent to how much we lose on other things. This is natural and fair.

The question is: How much have we sacrificed for these things? Do you think the price you paid is worth it? If we spend more time and effort on these things than on God, we must re-evaluate. The pursuits mentioned above are all temporary; they will eventually fade away. Only God, and only God’s love for us, is everlasting. If you acknowledge this truth today, are you willing to let go of these passions, though secondary, for God?

I remember asking before if we were willing to give God a chance to “compete” with the one we love most at the moment. Whether you realize it or not, if we are unwilling, it's like God loses to ourselves. Isn't it? All these pursuits are about building ourselves up or satisfying our desires! Are these worldly and temporary achievements and satisfactions worth sacrificing eternal joy for? Are we willing to pay such a heavy price for our souls?

Reflection

How much have you paid for the things you keep pursuing in life? Do you think the price you have paid is worth it?

What do you think you have lost for these pursuits in life?

Are you willing to give up the pursuit of these passions for the sake of God?

Today’s Prayer

Oh God, I don't even know when it began, but unknowingly, I've been blindly pursuing things that ultimately I don't know will benefit me. I don't know the magnitude of the price I've paid or how much I've lost. Thank You for providing me with a space for reflection, allowing me to pause and examine how my life has become imbalanced. Most importantly, I've gradually lost You, lost the time to establish a relationship with You, and missed the opportunities to draw near to You.

Lord, please rescue me from this state of "selfishness" and let me know that losing You means losing everything. Teach me once again to affirm that I truly need You every minute of my life.

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The following is the “Farmer of Hearts: Finding God in All Things” team, including FLL staff and volunteers. Please kindly pray for them. May God protect them and sustain their physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

Project Manager: Michael Lam
Writer: Paul Yeung
Editors: Bonny Chan, Rosa Tse
English Editors: Bonny Chan, Paul Yeung
Mandarin Editor: Anthony X.
Cantonese Narrator: Margaret Woo
English Narrator: Bonny Chan
Mandarin Narrator: Rene Ren
Audio Editors: Fonte Ip, Sander Lee, Margaret Woo
YouTube Editors: Fonte Ip, Sander Lee, Arnold Chan
Graphics: Francis Lai, Rosa Tse
Website: Patricia Young, Angela Wong
Podcast: Angela Wong
Social Media: Yollie Leung, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse
Theme Music:
“Friends Only” by Introvert Pianist https://www.youtube.com/@introvertpianist
“Watercolor Lilies” by Aaron Kenny https://youtube.com/@contactkennya

A week ago, at the beginning of the retreat, I asked everyone a question: Do you desire to find God in all things? I wonder what your answer was. If you have been following this retreat, I believe your answer is yes. But when you think about the theme of this retreat, "Finding God in All Things," what comes to your mind? How does it make you feel? I'm sure you would agree that if you could find your ultimate love in all things, whether it's your favourite "food", "money" that makes you feel safe, or "happiness" that makes you satisfied, or an "achievement" that makes you confident, or most importantly, a "lover" who makes you excited and exhilarated, the world would be so much more beautiful!

The lyrics of a popular Cantonese song “Need You Every Minute” by George Lam came to mind:
The Lyrics go like this:

With you, I am happier, and I am content with everything.
Even frugal meals taste delicious.
I want to be with you forever; every minute, I need you.
You are like sunshine and air to me.

有了你開心啲 乜都稱心滿意
鹹魚白菜也好好味
我與你永共聚 分分鐘需要你
你似是陽光空氣

Isn’t “Finding Him in all things” similar to what this song describes? Shouldn’t the “Him” we look forward to meeting, or the “you” mentioned in the lyrics, take the place of what appears to be more important in our lives? When we can spend time with this "you", isn't it true that it doesn’t really matter as much what we eat or wear? As for us, when we have God, the “you” in our lives, isn’t it as important as having “sunshine and air” in our lives? In such a time and space, even if external circumstances pose challenges, if you can always see your favourite person or thing in front of you, isn’t it possible to overlook everything else that is not favourable?

The lyrics continue like this:

Together with you, everything is joyful, and we're so content.
Catastrophes seem like trivial matters when we're together.
Even in the midst of storms, just seeing you
is like seeing the sunshine.

Dressing up beautifully all because of you.
Being crazy and silly, all because of you.
Willingly doing foolish things for you.
Pretending to be a chimpanzee, laughing at everything.
Having you by my side brings so much joy.

共你雙雙對 好得戚好得意
地冧天崩當閒事
就算翻風雨 只需睇到你
似見陽光千萬里

扮靚啲皆因你 癲癲哋皆因你
為你甘心作傻事
扮吓猩猩叫 睇到乜都笑
有你在身邊多樂趣

Isn't it very romantic? Have you ever thought that being with God can actually be such a romantic thing? Romantic enough to do “foolish things” for Him, just like He did the “most foolish” thing for us. Do we ever consider looking at and experiencing our God from this perspective? Can we have a playful interaction with God? Can we amuse God in our daily lives? Can I be a fool for God?

If we have such a romantic relationship with God, wouldn't "finding Him in all things" be our most anticipated and lifelong goal? If we truly have this romantic relationship with God, we wouldn't want to lose Him. Instead, we would exhaust all efforts to pursue Him, cherish Him, and keep Him.

Here is the most poignant part of the whole song:

If I were to lose you one day, even blooming flowers wouldn't be beautiful.
I'd rather live on a deserted island forever.
I would make a puppet like you, look at it every day
and act in front of it.

若有朝失咗你 花開都不美
願到荒島去長住
做個假的你 天天都相對
對木頭公仔做戲

Fortunately, the biggest difference between God and the other “favourites” in our lives is that, if we are willing, we will never lose Him. So we should not make a fake "God", performing acts with this puppet, to replace the once and for all, the true and eternal King of our lives, both in this life and in eternity. We have someone we can trust and lean on, a true ultimate love!

Living to a thousand years, my heart remains captivated,
With you by my side, life is so much more joyful.

活到一千歲 都一般心醉
有你在身邊多樂趣

Reflection

Have you ever had the following experience? The moment when you find the person or thing you love most, suddenly, the things that were important before became not so important. Recall how you felt at that moment.

Is there a "puppet" in your life that has taken the place of the true "King” of your life?

Do you hope to find the true "love" in your life? Are you willing to let go of the other lesser loves for this "ultimate love"?

Today’s Prayer

Dear God, thank You so much. Thank You for taking away my entanglements from yesterday, allowing my eyes to see more clearly, and gradually opening my heart, letting me feel the emotions that were lacking in my past relationship with You! Why didn't You share Your feelings with me earlier... or maybe it's my problem instead... not being sensitive enough to hear and feel You…

Lord, please don't allow me, this foolish child, to let You down, betraying Your lavish love for me.

My dear Lord, I'm sorry. I love You.

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The following is the “Farmer of Hearts: Finding God in All Things” team, including FLL staff and volunteers. Please kindly pray for them. May God protect them and sustain their physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

Project Manager: Michael Lam

Writer: Paul Yeung

Editors: Bonny Chan, Rosa Tse

English Editors: Bonny Chan, Paul Yeung

Mandarin Editor: Anthony X.

Cantonese Narrator: Margaret Woo

English Narrator: Bonny Chan

Mandarin Narrator: Rene Ren

Audio Editors: Fonte Ip, Sander Lee, Margaret Woo

YouTube Editors: Fonte Ip, Sander Lee, Arnold Chan

Graphics: Francis Lai, Rosa Tse

Website: Patricia Young, Angela Wong

Podcast: Angela Wong

Social Media: Yollie Leung, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse

Theme Music:

“Friends Only” by Introvert Pianist https://www.youtube.com/@introvertpianist

“Watercolor Lilies” by Aaron Kenny https://youtube.com/@contactkennya

In the first five days of the retreat, we mentioned that if we are not aware of our need for God, it is difficult for us to have the motivation and desire to establish a relationship with Him, especially since God is not someone we can see or touch. This awareness and awakening can be achieved through several ways.

The first is to choose a simple lifestyle and avoid living a luxurious or materially rich life, which will give you the illusion that we can be "self-sufficient". The second way to become aware of and experience that one has needs is through self-denial. In particular, it applies to some higher-level needs which cannot be satisfied by oneself, such as spiritual needs. The third is through continuous self-examination and receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation regularly, making ourselves aware that we are limited and weak and in need of God's forgiveness, grace, and help.

If we don’t realize that we need God through these deliberate life choices, one day when something unexpected and beyond our control happens, such as a disaster or crisis, it will dawn on us that we cannot live our lives by relying on ourselves.

Of course, we cannot enter into a relationship with God with a selfish motive, that is, only seeking to satisfy our own needs. After all, God is not a tool. We need to have a genuine relationship with God. Whether this relationship is healthy or not depends on how accurate our image of God is, and more importantly, the role and position of God in our minds.

When we love or care about someone, we constantly think of them and wish to see them anytime, anywhere, even in our dreams. Isn't that true? If the object of our affection is God, we would hope to encounter Him in all things and be with Him. Conversely, if God is not the one we love or care about, or if He is not our ultimate love, we won't have a strong desire to find Him in all things. Therefore, we need to ask ourselves, who or what are more important to us than God? These things could be tangible or intangible, such as achievements or status.

If there is something in our lives that is more important than God, are we willing to give God a chance to “compete” with the one we love most in our lives right now? This is also a chance for ourselves! Isn't it the greatest blessing to be able to find your true love in life, the person who loves you the most? Isn’t it worth investing our time to find the answer?

Let's embark on this amazing journey of exploration together!

Reflection

Is there anyone or anything more important than God in your life right now? That is, when you think of this person or thing, you will be more excited and happier than when you think of God. You will also put more thought into this person or thing.

What role and position does this person or thing have in your life?

Why is this person or thing more important to you than God?

Today’s Prayer

Lord, I’ve realized that there are many things in my life that I consider important. You know I value those things... but why do You want me to make a choice? To me, You are important. It's true... but those things are equally important! I'm really not ready to make this choice.

Could You please give me another way out... to have both... or at least give me a little more time?

Please... help me... when I am about to give up on making a choice, please give me the perseverance to make wise choices through this retreat, through the free will You have given me.

The following is the “Farmer of Hearts: Finding God in All Things” team, including FLL staff and volunteers.
Please kindly pray for them. May God protect them and sustain their physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

Project Manager: Michael Lam
Writer: Paul Yeung
Editors: Bonny Chan, Rosa Tse
English Editors: Bonny Chan, Paul Yeung
Mandarin Editor: Anthony X.
Cantonese Narrator: Margaret Woo
English Narrator: Bonny Chan
Mandarin Narrator: Rene Ren
Audio Editors: Fonte Ip, Sander Lee, Margaret Woo
YouTube Editors: Fonte Ip, Sander Lee, Arnold Chan
Graphics: Francis Lai, Rosa Tse
Website: Patricia Young, Angela Wong
Podcast: Angela Wong
Social Media: Yollie Leung, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse
Theme Music:
“Friends Only” by Introvert Pianist https://www.youtube.com/@introvertpianist
“Watercolor Lilies” by Aaron Kenny https://youtube.com/@contactkennya

Sometimes, we feel ignored or excluded by others not because they intentionally alienate us, but rather due to a mistaken impression they have about us. This misconception is often based on a flawed understanding of our preferences, likes, dislikes, or needs. Such misconceptions can easily lead to mismatch in expectations, giving rise to unnecessary misunderstandings.

Similarly, the image of God in our minds greatly influences our interactions with Him, thereby affecting our relationship with Him. If in our hearts, God is perceived only in a transcendent way, distant and exalted, then we will keep a respectful distance with Him. This is quite natural. By observing some parent-child relationships, you'll see a similar pattern. If God desires to present Himself in a "supreme and lofty" manner, He cannot and will not blame us for keeping Him at arm's length in our daily lives because, fundamentally, He doesn't care. But is that the case?

The birth of Jesus and His presence among us not only reveals the transcendent aspect of God but also unveils the heart of God and His emotions. The object of His emotional expression is not other created beings but us humans. It can be said that God has a very special and deep affection for us.

The Word became flesh and lived among us. This is a mystery. The profound meaning it contains is worthy of our repeated reflection! One crucial aspect of this is that God took on human nature and engaged with humanity on a relational level in the affairs of the present world. This emotional connection with God is often an aspect easily overlooked by ordinary believers, and it can even be said that there is a lack of awareness in this regard.

From the interactions between Jesus and His disciples, it is not difficult to observe that the disciples often did not understand the thoughts and needs of Jesus. This made Jesus feel saddened, not understood, unappreciated, and even lonely. If we carefully examine some of the conversations between Jesus and His disciples, we can easily discern that Jesus did not want to assume the role of a lofty master. He desired to be a friend, to engage in heartfelt connections with people, to enter each other's inner chambers, to accompany and trust each other, and to rely on each other to fulfill their immediate needs. This inner resonance, compared to the disciples merely comprehending His teachings intellectually, brings more solace to the heart of Jesus.

For example: When Jesus was about to face His Passion and death, while eating the Passover meal with His disciples, He 

The act of Jesus washing the disciples' feet in the role of a servant and the dialogue with Peter reveal the kind of relationship Jesus desires to establish with His disciples. Besides teaching them to serve one another, He also demonstrates His willingness to enter into the details of our lives with the utmost kindness and humility, to accompany, guide, and teach us in a gentle and persuasive manner. If, like Peter, we refuse to let Jesus "wash our feet," rejecting Him from our lives, meaning He cannot enter into the details of our lives to serve us, we can be certain that Jesus' response to us will be the same – we would have no share with Him! Isn't Jesus very clear in this regard?

If we can understand God's humanity, His human touch, we can better enter into the heart of God, empathize with His needs, and comprehend His feelings towards us. When we truly understand the emotions and intentions of God, His teachings will no longer appear rigid or difficult to accept. We will follow Him wholeheartedly, without reservation, and being a true follower of Christ becomes easier and more natural.

Reflection

Please imagine that Jesus is now standing before you, intending to wash your feet. How do you feel, and how would you respond to Him?

In your life, are there any areas where you do not allow God to enter, or where you resist accepting God's help?

If God were to ask you once again right now: "Do you need me?" How would you respond?

Today’s Prayer

Lord, facing You and Your question, I am truly speechless. Indeed, "Lord, not only my feet but also wash my hands and my head!" Please cleanse me thoroughly! How can I refuse You from entering into my life, every detail of my life, even the broken and fragile parts, to repair and heal me?

I need You to teach and accompany me through this more intimate relationship between You and me!

Lord, I truly cannot afford to lose You!

The following is the “Farmer of Hearts: Finding God in All Things” team, including FLL staff and volunteers.

Please kindly pray for them. May God protect them and sustain their physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

Project Manager: Michael Lam

Writer: Paul Yeung

Editors: Bonny Chan, Rosa Tse

English Editors: Bonny Chan, Paul Yeung

Mandarin Editor: Anthony X.

Cantonese Narrator: Margaret Woo

English Narrator: Bonny Chan

Mandarin Narrator: Rene Ren

Audio Editors: Fonte Ip, Sander Lee, Margaret Woo

YouTube Editors: Fonte Ip, Sander Lee, Arnold Chan

Graphics: Francis Lai, Rosa Tse

Website: Patricia Young, Angela Wong

Podcast: Angela Wong

Social Media: Yollie Leung, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse

Theme Music:

“Friends Only” by Introvert Pianist https://www.youtube.com/@introvertpianist

“Watercolor Lilies” by Aaron Kenny https://youtube.com/@contactkennya

Like many of us, you may have had the following experience: You knew that in your circle of friends, an event that you valued very much and looked forward to was coming up, but in the end, you found out you were not invited. The feeling of not being valued, being excluded, being given the cold shoulder, or even being shut out is very painful. The feeling of being rejected and excluded can have a lasting impact on us, and may even hurt us deeply. As the “victim”, if we are open-minded and proactive, we may say to the host: "Be sure to count me in next time!" and then look forward to being invited to the next event. But if we were not invited again, we would be even more sad and disappointed. We would lose confidence in the host, and the relationship would turn sour. The damage to the relationship may be difficult to repair! You may say to yourself: "What kind of a friend is this? Forget it!"

But have we ever imagined that the wrongdoer is us – you and me – and the victim is God?

Ask yourself, have we ever actively invited God into our lives, every aspect of our lives? We usually only take the initiative to invite God into our lives when we are faced with serious matters, when we are in crisis, need help, or need to make important decisions. Our defense is: "God is so busy. I shouldn’t disturb Him. How would He have time to get involved in the trivial matters in my life?" But is that true?

We need to have a better look at the true face of God! If God really only wants to be involved in important things but doesn’t want to be troubled with small things, then why would Jesus enter the world as a baby and spend thirty years with people in seemingly insignificant details of life before beginning His public ministry? If God doesn’t want to bother with the details of our lives, as we imagined, how is it possible that He desires to build the most intimate relationship with us?

Think about this. Hasn’t He shown fine attention to the details of our lives and has taken tender loving care of us? In the Gospel, when large crowds of people kept following Him, wanting to hear Him speak, pleading Him to heal them, or just hoped to catch a glimpse of Him, didn’t Jesus express His concern about whether they had anything to eat, and then, performed the miracle of "five loaves and two fishes" to feed everyone? Not only did God love us so much that He sacrificed His only begotten Son and suffered for us, but He also cared about our daily needs and was willing to enter our lives. To be more precise, He is not just "willing to", but "desired" to enter our lives! He wants to enter into the details of our lives, not just to relieve us of troubles or provide for our needs, but to accompany us through the ups and downs, joys and sorrows. This is our God!

Do we want to see such a God to be rejected by us? Our God is a gentle God. He is not willing to impose His will on us. He will not take the initiative to ask us to invite Him. He will only wait silently outside our door, waiting for us to open the door and invite Him in and be with us every moment of our lives.

Reflection

Try to recall an experience of being shut out. Relive the experience of being rejected and excluded. How do you feel?

Have you ever shut God out of your life? Imagine how He felt. How will you avoid putting God through this painful experience?

Please allow your Heavenly Father to tell you His feelings, how He wants to accompany you and pay attention to every detail of your life.

Today’s Prayer

O Lord! Have I ever hurt You because I rejected You? Now I understand how painful it was for You! You love me so much, but I...
Dear Lord Jesus, I sincerely invite You into my inner chamber, my heart, and the details of my life. I want to be accompanied by You, cared for by You, and loved by You!

Lord Jesus, please forgive me for all the harm I have done to You. I love You!

“A friend in need is a friend indeed” does not only apply to human relationships, but it is also reflected in our relationship with God. God is faithful and His love for us never changes. Yet we only acknowledge God’s faithfulness when we are in need. Whenever we encounter adversity, such as setbacks at work or school, challenges in family and marriage, financial crisis, serious illness of ourselves or our relatives or friends, or the death of a loved one, etc., that is, difficulties that cannot be overcome by our own ability alone, we realize our limitations and need to turn to God for help.

No matter what the reason is for us to return to the Father and take refuge in Him, He is pleased because He knows that it is best for us when we rely on Him and live in Him. You know, God does not want disasters to happen to us. Most of the disasters and setbacks that happen to us are caused by our or other people's free will, or by nature and natural laws. Although God wants us to remember Him and take refuge in Him, it is painful for Him to see that we only go back to Him through these painful experiences, in order that we can receive His power, His grace and support for us. Like any earthly father, He is eager to help us and provide for our needs at all times. Unfortunately, under most circumstances, we may not be willing to accept it, nor do we feel that there is such a need.

Usually, we will wake up suddenly when we have experienced some crisis that we cannot overcome by ourselves. You may have also heard the testimonies of people who have remarkable turnaround in their lives. It could be survivors who have overcome terminal illnesses, individuals who have escaped from disasters, or those who have been released from prison. It could also include people who have committed serious crimes in the past and have been forgiven. Through these experiences, they understand their own limitations, or even unreliability, and learn to turn to the more trustworthy One in their lives. People who are awakened in this regard will live a completely new life, just like the beginning of a second life. Not only will they live more humbly, but they will also cherish every moment and every gift in life. They don’t want to waste their lives or miss the opportunity to make contributions. They realize that nothing can be taken for granted and they need to cherish every moment of their lives. These "lucky ones" who have this sudden awakening will not easily let go of the new mission given to them by this second life. They have a new set of values ​​and mindset to embrace and accept all the opportunities given by above. If they are Christians, they will trust God more and try to find God in every situation in life.

Among the saints, St. Ignatius of Loyola is a classic example of this kind of person. Having experienced the devastating injury by a cannonball, he awakened from an extremely secular and utilitarian mindset. He was transformed from a military man who pursued fame and fortune to become the founder of the Society of Jesus. Besides, "Finding God in all things" is a key aspect of Ignatian spirituality. In fact, similar but less dramatic examples can often be seen and heard from the testimonies of catechumens and newly baptized. Unfortunately, among the more privileged brothers and sisters who have been baptized since childhood, testimonies in this regard are rare!

Let the great example of St. Ignatius remind us once again that the earlier we can recognize our own shortcomings, limitations, unreliability and sinfulness, the more we will understand how much we need God and how much we need to rely on His grace and power. We will do our best to find God’s footprints wherever and whenever possible, to find Him in all things. In addition to inviting us to pray, fast and give alms more readily, Lent is also an opportunity that cannot be missed as it allows us to reflect, examine ourselves and repent more. In fact, in every Sacrament of Reconciliation, our Heavenly Father gives us another experience of a redeemed life, giving us an opportunity to awaken and be reborn, and to begin a new life.

Our ability to find God in all things is directly related to our awareness of how much we need God. When we can fully understand that we need God every moment, we can embark on the wonderful journey of "finding Him in all things"!

May the Holy Spirit enlighten us. Let us take this opportunity to rediscover how much we need God in order to reorient our lives!

Reflection

Try to recall an experience in which you took refuge in God in a difficult situation or crisis. Please step into the role of the Heavenly Father. How do you feel?

Have you ever had a “rebirth” experience or major turnaround in life? What immediate and lasting changes did this experience bring you?

How are you going to use this retreat to reflect on how much you need God so that you can better prepare yourself to find God in all things?

Today’s Prayer

Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and sustain in me a willing spirit.

O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare Your praise, and declare to the world: Lord, I really need You! (cf. Psalm 51)

Song: Lord, I Need You (Matt Maher) Cover by Anna Byrd
https://youtu.be/8qyWjy8ez9s?si=ssJrCWqLTpcfxATm&t=8

Lord, I come, I confess

Bowing here I find my rest

Without You I fall apart

You're the One that guides my heart (x2)

Lord, I need You, oh, I need You

Every hour I need You

My one defense, my righteousness

Oh God, how I need You

The theme of "Finding God in All Things" for this year's retreat actually poses an important question to us: "Do we need God?" Or conversely, it is God asking us, "Do you need me?" This is a question worth pondering.

In the process of growing up, we are taught to be "independent", to take care of our own needs, and this "handle it yourself" mentality becomes deeply ingrained. "Don't bother others" becomes our mantra. On the surface, it may seem polite and considerate of others, but beneath it may hide a sense of pride, a reluctance to show our weakness. Or at least we do not let others know about our problems and the fact that we are unable to solve our own problems.

Under the influence of this mindset, besides being deceived by the hidden pride, we are also blindfolded by our “false self” about what we truly need and the reality of our actual situation. This "self-sufficient" mentality stifles the mutual trust and support we could build with others in neighbourly relationships, and more importantly, it stifles our ability to establish the right relationship with God. Without having a proper and healthy relationship with God, let alone establishing an "intimate relationship" with Him!

It's important to know that God created humans in relationships, and humans live within relationships just as God, being a Trinitarian God. Therefore, humans are inherently social beings, and the concept of "self-sufficiency" is fundamentally flawed; from the beginning of creation, such thinking was not in line with God's intention. The basis of "self-sufficiency" lies in "pride" and "distrust of God", a crude tactic used by the enemy to derail our normal relationship with God.

God created everything in the world for us to enjoy and manage based on our relationships with all things and with God. We depend on all things for our survival, and all things, including ourselves, depend on God for sustenance. This interdependence makes us mutually necessary and reliant on each other. It is the original intention and vision of God for all things to be united and harmonious in Him, and humanity is entrusted by God to be the executor and steward.

Therefore, the deviation of "self-sufficiency" strays far from God's will. While we essentially depend on God for our existence, our mindset and behaviour do not reflect that dependence; we erroneously believe we are "self-sufficient". This mentality discourages us from seeking God in all things but rather drives us to seek our own benefits in everything. Although we essentially need to rely on other things to survive, we attribute it to our own abilities. Therefore, God's question to us, "Do you need me?" is worth careful consideration. Otherwise, the theme of this retreat, "Finding God in All Things" would mean nothing to us.

Apart from our mindset, our lifestyles and habits largely determine whether we live by the principle of "self-sufficiency”. When we are living in abundance, we tend to be less aware of our need for God. Isn't it natural? The more prosperous the cities we live in, the more materially abundant we are, the harder it is for us to feel the need for God, let alone finding Him in all things.

Therefore, the three Lenten practices of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving call us to re-experience that we are needy, that we need God! Fasting reminds us of our physical needs; prayer, our spiritual needs; and almsgiving makes us aware of the needs of others and encourages us to lend a helping hand. These three Lenten practices also help us wake up from affluent living, shifting from blindly pursuing and satisfying surface-level needs to discovering and understanding our hidden inner and spiritual needs. The more we know our own needs, the more we can understand and see ourselves clearly. This awareness is crucial in helping us build relationships with others and, more importantly, in understanding how to establish a genuine and intimate relationship with God.

Ultimately, this authentic relationship with God can help us keep a distance from the devil, as it will try to set traps and lead us into temptation. The devil deceives us, making us refrain from openly expressing our needs because we fear others may look down on us. In doing so, we deviate from the Father's desire for us to trust and depend on Him. This reliance, originating from created beings leaning on the Creator, evolves into a relationship where children trust their Father due to the love the Father has for us.

Reflection

Have you ever experienced in some relationships in your life that the other person only comes to you for their own benefit, and it feels like they do not respect your feelings and needs? The feeling of being taken advantage of is very hurtful. Has this ever happened to you in your relationship with God?

If God were to ask you, "Do you need me?" How would you respond to Him?

Today’s Prayer

My dear Lord, I thank You for allowing me to feel Your gentleness as I reflect today. I know You never desire to impose Your will and love on me, which makes You a passive lover in our relationship, always waiting for me to draw near to You, to tell You how much I need You…

Lord, help me break free from this pattern. Remind me and make me realize how important You are to me, how You desire for me to turn to You, and to return to Your side.

Lord, I need You. O, Lord, I really need You…

In the past two years, amid the upheaval of wars and social unrest, the world appears unfamiliar and hostile compared to our previous experiences. People are growing more anxious and restless. We may wonder: Why is God so elusive? Has He turned His gaze away from us? Is He indifferent to the widespread suffering in the world? Is God's omnipresence a mere fiction or a thing of the past?

This year's FLL Farmer of Hearts online Lenten retreat, themed "Finding God in All Things," aims to awaken the awareness of God's omnipresence and provide a fresh perspective. Beyond offering contemplation for Lent, the retreat seeks to inspire "metanoia" or transformative changes in our lives.

In the entire process, we have to invite the Holy Spirit to be our guide, leading us and showing us the way, including when to pause and when to continue. We encourage you to participate in this retreat with an open and willing heart to make changes. We hope that, guided by the Holy Spirit, you will be willing to renew yourself in thought and understanding, thus changing the usual patterns of response and action. During the retreat, when you hear words that touch and inspire you, you may pause to carefully reflect on the touch and movement of the Spirit in your heart and the messages He gives you.

The desired outcome is increased inner freedom, fostering a more peaceful, resilient, and hopeful life—an essential state in our unpredictable and turbulent world.

"Finding God in All Things" is not just a life skill. To be exact, it is a mindset and direction in life. This attitude guides us to "encounter God" in our daily lives, ultimately leading to the goal of "being in communion with God". This is precisely what the Heavenly Father desires! Therefore, "finding God in all things" is not a fabricated utopian illusion. In fact, all created things are gifts from God out of love for humanity. Hence, in everything, we can find His footprints!

“Ever since the creation of the world his eternal power and divine nature, invisible though they are, have been understood and seen through the things he has made. So they are without excuse.” (Rm 1:20)

If you find your emotions stirred during the process, please allow your emotions or memories to speak to you, and ask the Lord to reveal the reasons and meanings behind these emotions. Use them as materials to discern God's invitation to you in the present moment. If at that moment, you can share your inner feelings with the Lord and engage in a conversation with Him, that is ideal. The purpose is to establish an intimate and trusting relationship with Him through heart-to-heart conversations, ultimately feeling His unique and personal love for you, gaining a deeper understanding of His intentions, and responding to His invitation.

The essence of the retreat is not to rush through the content of listening and meditation but to integrate the inspirations gained during the retreat into daily life. The more you can sense the presence of the Lord during this retreat, the more it will help you establish new attitudes and patterns of life, encountering the Lord in all things in your everyday life.

A retreat is a window through which God and His words can enter our hearts, bringing us closer to our Heavenly Father. The main purpose of a retreat is not to learn or to take a course. It cannot answer all questions about the subject. The more we can let go of our subjective desires and entrust unresolved issues emerging during the retreat entirely to God, the more we can extract the maximum benefit from the retreat. Our focus is on experiencing God's presence, that He is real, and His intense personal love for us.

Reflection

How is the current state of your mental and spiritual life? Are you experiencing joy or anxiety? Do you feel a sense of direction or are you feeling lost?

Do you feel the presence of God in your life?

When you learned that the theme of this retreat is "Finding God in all things," how did you feel? Do you feel excited and look forward to it?

Today’s Prayer

Come, O Holy Spirit, illuminate me and open the eyes of my heart! Remove all stumbling blocks that hinder me from experiencing God. Enlighten me to joyfully find God in all things, encounter His presence, and hear His voice!

Lord, breathe Your life in me with renewed hope, and instill in me a desire to encounter You every moment of my life!