The Gospel according to 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: Today’s Gospel, Jesus quickly points out to the disciples that, though they believe now, there will be a time that comes soon when most everyone will abandon Him, when they are scattered, and they will leave Him alone. One of the greatest tests of our faith is to look at how faithful we are when following Christ is not all that popular. It is in these moments, more than the easy moments, that we have an opportunity to manifest our faith and deepen our resolve to be a Christian.
Today is Memorial Day. The day when we pause our lives and honor the men and women who fought for this country and gave their lives for what they believed in. These people are the very reason why we have the freedom to choose. It makes you wonder if these men and women questioned their superiors, their reason for the battles, their brothers and sisters that they fought with? Did they question the reason why they were going into this fight? They had faith in each other and faith in their God. They gave up everything to follow what they believed in, and they committed themselves even if it meant surrendering their lives.
In our lives today, this freedom to choose and to do what we want is because of these blessed people of the military. We can choose to stay away from our faith and do what is evil or we can choose to follow our God and do what is right. In our culture today we are challenged so many times in our life to choose. We know what others are doing and yet we know what Jesus told us in the Bible. We know what the media, our social groups, and our culture is swaying towards and sometimes we need to take a stand and say what we believe in. Even if it means being ostracized. This is the very freedom that was given to us by God and the freedom that these wonderful men and women fought for. Jesus told us that it wouldn’t be easy but it is our apostolic mission to come together as brothers and sisters; as one united team to fight the good fight … our Faith.
Action of the Day: Please say a prayer of Thanks to the men and women who gave their lives for this country. And also pray for those that are now serving this country.
Audio Reflection:
DEACON5 