In the reading from the Acts of the
Apostles the faith community struggles as it tries to grow, as it tries to
welcome new members. There is a council; there is a meeting of the leadership.
During this meeting I bet there was a lot of discussion, a lot of input, a lot
of opinions and a lot of arguments. However in the end the leadership, the
community decided to change, it decided to grow. I am sure it was not easy
because change is never easy.
In the reading from the Book of
Revelation, John once again asks the communities to which he is writing to have
hope in the future so that in the meantime they can continue to live out their
faith. John tells them there will be
better times. In his vision today, John sees the New Jerusalem. It is the city
that his churches are journeying to; it is the city we all are journeying to.
As John describes it, the New Jerusalem is a wonderful city but it does not
have a temple, it does not have a basilica, it has the eternal presence of God.
The communities are to hold on to this vision, to hold on to this hope, they
are to continue to be faith filled people.
In the Gospel, Jesus prepares his
disciples for his Ascension, for the time when they will have to look at things
differently. They will not be to look to him when they struggle, when they are
challenged and life gets difficult. But they will have the Holy Spirit to guide
and direct them. The Holy Spirit will help them to remember the Good News. The Holy
Spirit will help them to see life differently and continue to bring the
presence of God to the world.
We are reminded today that as people of
faith we are to look at life differently. If we are willing to do so we will be
gifted by the Holy Spirit with the strength of faith, a vision of hope and the
embrace of God’s love. Live on people of faith do not be trouble or afraid!
Daily Prayer: Loving God, gift us today with your
unconditional love. Help us to find in these Easter days of joy a vision of
hope that will enable our hearts to not be troubled or afraid but to be hearts
of enduring faith. Teach us to see the world differently, not with the eyes of
the world but with your eyes so that our hearts will be filled with your peace.
Amen!
Runner’s Thought: If, in running,
the desire is to connect with God, to pray, it is already happening. Keeping
that desire at the forefront of our thoughts, remaining conscious of the intent
is critical. Let’s make our desire to run with God and then run with God today! (Adapted from Roger Joslin)
Sunday blessings to everyone today! The
mission here at Nativity Parish in Midland Park, NJ has started well this
weekend. A very faith filled and enthusiastic parish. It was nice to be a part
of the First Communion celebration at the 12 noon mass. Wonderful group of
kids! Again if you are in the area come and join us Monday, Tuesday and
Wednesday at 7:30 pm!
Have a restful and peaceful Sunday
everyone. I hope the sun is out wherever you are. My prayers are with you today
and always. Peace in Christ’s Passion and Hope in the Risen Lord…Fr. Paul
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