Thursday of the Fifth Week of Easter and John 1, Pope and Martyr
Readings for Thursday of the 5th Week of Easter
Biographical Information about John 1, Pope and Martyr

First Published: Thursday, May 18, 2006

Joy, the feeling

Reflection:

The debate that started yesterday in Acts has ended. The Holy Spirit has spoken to the Apostles. The world and all peoples are to be given the good news, Jews and gentiles alike. The only prohibitions they (the gentiles) need to follow are minimal; avoid pollution from idols, unlawful marriage, the meat of strangled animals, and blood. Now, with the crisis past, the great work can begin once more. Paul takes on his task and James supports him with scripture from Lev 18. Like a giant fireworks display, the world waits for bang that will send light into the corners of the world like bright streamers of glittering illumination.

And just what is that message, that light, they will take? That we get in part from a short Gospel reading;

Jesus said to his disciples:
As the Father loves me, so I also love you.
Remain in my love.
If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love,
just as I have kept my Fathers commandments
and remain in his love.

I have told you this so that
my joy might be in you and
your joy might be complete.
(Jn 15:9-11)

Just as the story from Acts continued to unfold, the description of the Peace of Christ continues in Johns Gospel. The serine sense of being one with the Lord flows from our deep routed knowledge that he, the gentle shepherd, the life giving vine, is with us. We hear the words he left us and know that, if we can just accept the gift, we can enjoy a salvific joy that will last forever.

If only our human weaknesses were not so impeding. Still, in the quiet time, early in the morning and late at night, we can reflect on this great gift and be at peace, knowing we do not have to be perfect, just do our best with what the creator has given us. Oh, and we must continue to improve our understanding of this love and his gift. Pray today for the strength to accept his love and find his joy. Pax