When all else fails, read the directions.

In this case, the directions are the gospels, because the failure we are facing here is desolation, and perhaps some burdens in our conscience.

So the first thing to do is to make sure God—who is your Invincible, Eternal, Friendly Father, Brother, and Spirit—is not being offended by something you are continually doing. A bad habit, we used to say. Face that, handle it, with the Sacrament of Reconciliation if necessary. Then move on.

Moving on means going to the gospels and finding where your spirit responds to what you read.  If you are still in desolation, go to the Gospel of Luke, chapter 3, about the ministry of John the Baptist and then about Jesus’ own baptism (which He didn’t need but did to encourage all who follow Him). And also about the Father declaring, You are my son, whom I love. With you I am well pleased (Jn.3:21)

Then keep reading and you will find what God our Lord hopes those whom He loves infinitely will do: what He has created in us to desire and do in honesty and holiness. Amen.