A reading according to the Gospel of John 16:29-33
The disciples said to Jesus, “Now you are talking plainly, and not in any figure of speech. Now we realize that you know everything and that you do not need to have anyone question you. Because of this we believe that you came from God.” Jesus answered them, “Do you believe now? Behold, the hour is coming and has arrived when each of you will be scattered to his own home and you will leave me alone. But I am not alone, because the Father is with me. I have told you this so that you might have peace in me. In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.”
REFLECTION: "I have told you this so that you might have peace in me. In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.”
At the age of seventeen, Doug G had done it all. His emaciated, hollowed eyes, and detached expression spoke volumes of what was happening. And Doug did not care. We see them on the streets, see them begging for food or money to continue this lifestyle. And we pass them by, shrugging our shoulders as we see another lost soul. But Doug was different. He cried out for help and through grace he found himself walking by the same church he had attended with his family. The church welcomed him without asking questions. And then the scriptures came alive for him. His life now is spent sharing this love and grace with others. He is now married for 17 years and has 2 children. This is a true story. Doug had an encounter with God, a true conversion story.
None of us are spared the heartaches and headaches of life. Doug was saved by God's grace alone. There was nothing Doug did to have God love him. He did not have to work for the blessing God gave him. However great we try we cannot change ourselves. Only God can get to the bottom of our defects. Only God knows the condition of our hearts. For we are reminded, "I have told you this so that you might have peace in me. In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.” The Holy Spirit set Doug on fire. Let us pray that we, too, will allow the Holy Spirit to take over our lives.
God Bless You
Please pray the fifth day of the Dekaena Novena
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