Today is the Feast Day of Mary under the title of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel. I’ve been to Mt. Carmel four times and celebrated mass there each time. I would have to say it’s one of the prettiest spots in all of Israel. Up on the mount you are looking out at a very blue Mediterranean Sea with a 180 degree panorama. When it’s clear you can see Lebanon to the north. It is also a very peaceful spot so it’s easy to see how the Carmelites can meditate up there even with the busy city of Haifa below.
At this site is one of Elijah’s caves and a place he made his home based in the Book of Kings. This is the place he had his showdown with the 850 prophets of Baal. He also dramatically encountered God here.
Like Elijah, we all need a place where we can encounter God in peace and tranquility. Every house I have ever owned I have found that ideal spot. Whenever I’m on vacation I try to find that spot such as a lounge chair overlooking the ocean or a mountain lake. A chapel in a local church has been a good spot for me also. We all need to find this spot in our environment to be able to hear his voice. If you have not found that Mt. Carmel in your life yet, it is probably time to start looking. It may be right around the corner !
DeColores, Deacon Doug