The "out there" God

Psychologists, and many psych "wannabees," are quick to catagorize human beings into personality types - extravert or introvert strikes me as the most common. We may think of extraverts as, "out there;" While introverts are, "in here." While psychology is certainly a beneficial science, it is anything but exact. Those of us in full time pastoral ministry learn very soon how our day to day service is a study in human nature, especially our own. Would it be possible to determine God's personality type? Was Jesus an extravert or introvert? We certainly have some indication as to the mix of personalities among the twelve Apostles. But, what about God? Let's just play with this. I propose God is an extravert - way off the charts big time! Why? In our first reading for today's Mass from the prophet Isaiah God speaks: " . . . So shall my word be that goes forth from my mouth; It shall not return to me void, but shall do my will, . . ." Yes, God is anything but shy and retiring; he's anything but self-absorbed, silent, navel gazing, or consumed with his own interests - but he could be. After all he doesn't need you or me for anything, "Thank you very much." But, the reading from Isaiah is a sign of God's abundant generosity and his determination to call us to himself and to conversion of heart and life. God is definitely, "out there" calling us to himself. In this season of grace, this holy time of opportunity, let us hear the words of this "out there," extraverted God who plants the seeds of his word in our hearts and live the out there life he has called us to. Now, all you introverts, myself included, line up, open your arms, and be not afraid to change.