I was looking for some answers ... in my life

I was searching for the truth

I thought everything I needed ... I possessed

So I walked away from you

I abandoned all you gave me

And focused everything on who I am

Self-centeredness consumed me

I was such a lonely man

Like a sheep without a shepherd ... I was lost

I was feeling like a fool

Then you called me by my name ... to bring me back

You said the truth was found in you

No, you didn’t have to find me

But you left the ninety-nine to bring me home

Forever am I grateful, Lord

No longer will I roam

Let your grace rain on me

Wrap your loving arms around me

I’m so glad that you found me

I am yours, and yours alone

You’re my friend, my lover

You’re my king and you’re my brother

There is you and no other

For you are my only one ... my only one!

I wish every day was perfect ... but it’s not

The only perfect thing is you

Some days the cross I bear ... weighs me down

So I put my trust in you

Open up my heart, Lord

To accept your grace and learn to do your will

My heart will never be at rest

Until it rests in you

Let your grace ...

Only one, yeah, you are my only one

The Beginning and the End, my eternal friend

You’re my only one

Only one, yeah, you are my only one

The one who helps me pray, showing me the way

You’re my only one ... my only one!

    This is one of my favorite songs to perform. It’s upbeat and fun. It’s the Prodigal Son and the Good Shepherd stories rolled into one. It’s also my story.

    I have heard so many stories of people (both men and women) leaving the Catholic Church during college and young adulthood, only to be “called” back again as they matured emotionally and spiritually.

    As I said, this is also my story. When given my freedom to move away from home I chose that opportunity to also walk away from the Church. After all, I was in college. I was young and invincible. (I was self-centered and naive!).

    The priest who conducted our marriage preparation classes challenged me to be a better Catholic. He believed (and he was correct) that a strong faith would lead to a strong marriage and family life.

    I am glad that God sought me out and kindly invited me back to his home. I cannot imagine my life being any other way.

    Have you talked to God lately? Have you been alone or away from His Church for a while? Come back to Him. He anxiously waits to wrap his loving arms of mercy around you and welcome you home.

    Our God is an awesome God - a merciful, loving and forgiving God. Spend some time with a priest, deacon or other spiritual advisor. Let them help you find your way back home.

    Be at peace and know that you are loved!