In the first reading from Acts 13 today, Paul continues his message of salvation through Jesus in the temple at Antioch. In the Gospel reading today, we’re in John 14, at the Last Supper. Jesus tells the Apostles, “Where I am going, you know the way.” Confused, Thomas says, “Master, we do not know where you are going; how can we know the way?” Jesus replies, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
Jesus’ opening words in today’s Gospel reading set the tone. Picture it: the Last Supper. Their worlds are about to be turned inside out. The Master is about to endure unspeakable horror. They will flee in fear. All of this is unbeknownst to them. So Jesus says, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me.” I wonder if these words rang in their ears as their world was falling apart. Do they ring in our ears?
There's so much negativity in our society today. The media highlights all the bad stuff going on in the world. If we concentrate on all that stuff, it is easy for our hearts to be troubled. (I believe this is part of Satan's plan.) This begs some questions. Do we really believe that God is in control? Can He actually bring good out of tragedy? Do we trust Him enough to not let our hearts be troubled? Truly, this is a daunting task. But it is not impossible. In fact, it is a proportional relationship: the more we have faith in Jesus, the less troubled our hearts will be.
Father, you know how easily our faith wavers, our trust falters. Increase our faith. Increase our trust in Jesus so that our hearts may not be troubled, but filled with joy. Amen.
Thank you for your encouraging words, or rather, your exhortation. As I was pondering yesterday’s reflection and your definition of the word, I was thrilled to see you step up to the plate today, and with one crack of the bat, remove any doubt of its meaning!
As St. Paul might say, we need a lot more building up in this world. Keep up the good work my friend. And know that this warrior stands firm praying for you and your bride!