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. (John 16:21-22 NABRE)
At present, we still await the time of promise, when we will see Jesus and our hearts will rejoice without end. And the wait can be so difficult Jesus even described it as anguish. He knew the pains of this life and that he would soon be leaving his friends, and so he foretells their grief which will come before the joy of their reunion. And he points out that our joy will be so great we will actually forget the pains of this life!
Jesus understands our difficulties. He knows the pain of separation and grief. He knows what hunger feels like. Jesus remembers what humiliation was like. He experienced frustration and anger, sadness and loneliness. Just like we do.
Lord Jesus, thank you for promising us eternal joy in your company. Even though it is always something I hope for, this life can be torment in the many ways it turns my attention away from you. Because you became a man like me, you understand how I suffer at times and how difficult days can be. Please, shower me with your compassion and mercy so that in these times of great trial and distress I will not despair nor become despondent, but with great confidence submit myself to your holy will, which is love and mercy itself. Jesus I trust in you.
Today, on this Friday of the Sixth Week of Easter, I will pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy for all married couples, especially those celebrating an anniversary today, that they might never lose sight of the third partner in their marriage covenent, who is God himself.
Saint Isidore the Farmer, patron of farmers and laborers, pray for us.
No comments:
Post a Comment