A Gospel Reflection
by Father Livingstone
Friday, May 22nd
“A little while, and you see me no more; again a little while, and you will see me.” Some of his disciples said to one another, “What does he mean by this: “A little while, and you will not see me, and again a little while, and you will see me, and by this: “Because I am going to the Father?” So they asked, “What is this “little while” that he is talking about? We do not know what he means.”
Jesus knew that they were wanting to question him, and said, “Are you discussing that saying of mine: “A little while, and you will not see me, and again a little while, you will see me? In very truth I tell you, you will weep and mourn, but the world will be glad. But though you will be plunged in grief, your grief will be turned to joy. A woman’s labor is in pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish in her joy that a child has been born into the world. So it is with you: for the moment: for the moment you are sad; but I shall see you again, and then you will be joyful, and no one shall rob you of your joy. When that day comes you will ask me nothing more. In very truth I tell you, if you ask the Father for anything in my name, he will give it to you. So far you have asked nothing in my name. Ask and you will receive, that your joy may be complete.”
REFLECTION: Why do you suppose Jesus tells his disciples that they will weep and be sorrowful? He certainly is not a pessimist and he most certainly was not acting like a realist. The way to joy and happiness in the kingdom of God is through the cross of Christ. When we bring our sin to the cross only then are we able to enjoy peace and righteousness, and the power of God’s redeeming love.
The cross for Jesus was not defeat but victory. Victory over sin and the forces of evil in the world. It is the promise of new abundant life and freedom over the power of sin, despair and death. The Easter victory gives us courage, strength and confident hope in the face of suffering. We will have trials and tribulations in our life, but through the eyes of faith we know that we shall overcome. Jesus has promised us that our Father in heaven will give us all that we need to live as his children and as disciples of the Lord Jesus. Do you know the joy of Jesus’s victory over sin and death?
God our Father, you brought salvation to all mankind through the suffering of Christ your Son. May we always strive to offer ourselves to you as a living sacrifice and be filled with the abundance of your love. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen
