JESUS SPEAKS ABOUT THE FUTURE |
Today’s Gospel Reading: John 16:20-23 – SIXTH WEEK OF EASTER: Friday, 11 May 2018
The Lord describes the pain of giving birth to the Gospel . The oscillation of low and high points in Paul’s ministry (see first reading Acts 18:9-18) was like giving birth.
We have the promise of the Kingdom in our lives and in our world. But, it is difficult to maintain enthusiasm. Building the Kingdom is not like building a castle. We are dealing with human beings, free will and grace. Now and then, we receive consolations (as the medievals called them) or moments of grace when we experience some preliminary results of our work.
There are times when we glimpse the Lord’s presence and see the purpose of our labor. That gives us new strength to continue and to continue to continue. Only at the end, will we see how everything fits together. Then our questions will be answered. Then we will understand the pain and the promise.
We cannot avoid the pain. But we should never forget the Lord’s promise.
Jakarta, 11 May 2018
A Christian Pilgrim
