A reading from the holy Gospel according to John 14:1-6
Jesus said to his disciples:“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me. In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places.If there were not,would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you?And if I go and prepare a place for you,I will come back again and take you to myself,so that where I am you also may be.Where I am going you know the way.” Thomas said to him, “Master, we do not know where you are going;how can we know the way?” Jesus said to him, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
REFLECTION
Silence helps us appreciate the wonders of God. We see birds building their nests. Birds are flying in unison. A flower overnight opens up showing us the splendor of God's creation. A bumble bee goes about its work of pollinating silently, butterflies flutter and the ladybug walks through the flower beds. Even those annoying gnats can't break the chaos free life. They are doing what they were created to do--bother human beings!
During periods where God's beauty is seen, our hearts beat in unison with God's heart. Under His watchful eye, we can experience the beauty of life. However, like the disciples, we are fearful, perplexed, confused, hurt, betrayed, disappointed, frustrated and bewildered. We know that our feelings and emotions can change when our attitude, trust and hope in the Lord take center stage.
The angst of the apostles was in losing Jesus. He was leaving them after 3 1/2 years of close company, travelling, and listening to Him. They did not understand why He had to suffer and die. Grasping the Resurrection was not there yet.
There would be no utopia, no perfect serenity for Israel. Jesus Christ said to stop being troubled, stop letting our hearts beat in fright. He did promise He would be with us in the midst of our uncertainties. Pain and suffering will be a part of our life. Jesus says to give all to Him: the troubles and the emotions that flow from those troubles.
Today enjoy God's presence in the silence of Eucharistic adoration. Experience the Eucharistic mystery subject of our May retreat. Contact us at papa@papamio.org for more information.
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