What does “Discern” mean?

“In addition, we must be able to discern where and how God is leading us in life. God is the source of the path that leads to life. The road might get rocky, but if it is leading to more truth, more joy in our lives, we can discern God’s presence. If something is leading us to truth, to wholeness, to peace, God is there.” Fr. Mark A. Villano, Journey to Jerusalem

According to its definition from Google, discern is a verb that means to perceive or recognize. When I think of a verb, I go back to my elementary education and when I taught 1st grade. A verb is an action. Most of them are not passive. When you think of the word “discern,” you might not think of action. But it is not a time of just sitting and waiting to see where you are being called to go. I believe the first thing is to invite God into this action. God will show you the path that you need to take. The road to your calling may not always be smooth or straight, but God is bigger and wiser than the path and is right there with you. It takes trust to allow God to show you the way.