Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“Now we realize that you know everything and that you do not need to have anyone question you.”

Gospel Reading: 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.”

In today’s Gospel, the eyes of the Apostles are finally wide open. Their beliefs have know matured to fully understand the mission of Jesus Christ on earth. When Jesus would teach to the crowds in parables, he followed that with more detailed teachings for the Apostles so that they would be able to continue his mission on earth. It was through these explanations that the Apostles eventually realize that Jesus is the complete truth; that He is the Son of God sent to save us. Jesus replies to their revelation, “Do you now believe?” Believing in God means that one must also believe in the mission and miracles that Jesus performed on earth. It is also believing that Jesus is the “Word made flesh,” and that he is the “way and the light.” Jesus’ time on earth has come to an end and it will now be the Apostles time to spread the good news. He lets them know that their mission will not be easy and that they will be alone. The tribulation of the world will attack them and try to prevent them from accomplishing their mission. But in their belief in the Risen Lord Jesus Christ, they will find peace because He has overcome the world. We too are given the same mission as the Apostles – to go out and spread the good news. We are scatter into the world to be sheep amongst wolves. When the tribulations of the world try to attach us, we need to have confidence in our beliefs because it is through Christ that we find true peace and salvation. It is through our faith in Christ that we find the joy of the Kingdom of heaven. To build faith, we must first exercise our beliefs. Faith is not automatic. Our beliefs are exercised through the Gospels and through our mission in the world. We are all called to go forth and bring the light of God to others.

A Simple Prayer

Lord Jesus, bring me to the altar of your healing powers.

When I meet adversities and trials, give me the strength to defend my faith.

Give me the same peace and joy you shared with your Apostles.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon