TODAYS REFLECTION 4TH WEEK OF EASTER SAT APRIL 23.

TODAYS REFLECTION  4TH WEEK OF EASTER SAT APRIL 23. ( Acts 13:44-52, Jn14:7-14 )

#ACCEPTINGREJECTIONANDPERSECTIONINKNOWINGCHRIST#

Our first reading from Acts recounts the events of Paul and Barnabas’ efforts to share the “word of the Lord” with the Jews and Gentiles.  The two encountered setbacks and received resistance from the Jews and positive feedback from the Gentiles.  Even though the Jews essentially kick them out of the area, we are told, “the disciples were filled with joy and the Holy Spirit.”

Friends really, It is hard enough for us to accept suffering, let alone rejoice amidst rejection and persecution.  And yet, isn’t that the dynamic of being a Christian, of experiencing the joys, challenges and struggles of living the Paschal Mystery, of following the crucified and resurrected Christ? Paul and Barnabas remind us that suffering is not easy and that it’s not the end of the story, the final note.  Through suffering and death, we come to new life, abundant life in Christ. 

Beloved we are reminded in todays Gospel, that knowing God, through Jesus, is an invitation of ours.  God is not a distant being, but one who is accessible and invites us to an intimate relationship, through his son. God and Jesus want that same intimacy for us to know them well and deeply, such as through heartfelt conversation and prayer, receiving the sacraments, by listening.  May we accept that invitation for intimacy, each day, with more depth and enthusiasm and may God's love remain in us.