May 26 2006

Jn 16:20-23 Jesus said to his disciples: “Amen, amen, I say to you, you will weep and mourn, while the world rejoices; you will grieve, but your grief will become joy. When a woman is in labor, she is in anguish because her hour has arrived; but when she has given birth to a child, she no longer remembers the pain because of her joy that a child has been born into the world. So you also are now in anguish. But I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you. On that day you will not question me about anything. Amen, amen, I say to you,whatever you ask the Father in my name he will give you.” The analogy is made of a woman in labor who forgets pain when she sees her newborn child. Jesus is explaining and preparing the disciples for the loss of their beloved teacher but Jesus will be there for them if they ask in the Father for anything in the name of Jesus. A beloved one is taken away but is there through prayer to the Father.

A heart that can grieve deeply can love deeply too. A heart capable of great sorrow is capable of great joy. To love with my whole heart and soul the Lord my God is a great joy and at times a great trial and sadness. The love of God and walking in the way of the Lord is a path that is not without suffering and tears but one that is always filled with rewards and joy.

A house that is divided can not stand. I pray today that God grant me the continued blessing of being a faithful disciple in all that I do this day. If there are any times of sadness, that I may have my eyes on the prize of Christ for those who walk in the light and live with an open and giving heart and mind. I pray for heart that is ready and willing and open to all with love.