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Sometimes we put too much confidence in the strength of our faith in Jesus. We think we believe, and indeed our faith is real, but it can also be weak. Yet Jesus strengthens our weakness and keeps us in touch with the strength of the Father.
The calming effects of water on the human spirit are well known. Clean water is too precious to take for granted; much of the world thirsts for it, and climate change threatens the water supply for the poorest.
Saint Madeleine Sophie Barat lived in France during the French Revolution. Concerned about the education of children, especially girls, and feeling a call to the religious life, she founded the Society of the Sacred Heart. The sisters worked for the education of the poor and ran boarding schools for the well-to-do.
At the Last Supper the Lord prays for those who will have to be “in the world.” They are one with Jesus and with the Father. They can expect that the world will not accept them, even as they witness to Jesus there. But they carry the promise of Jesus, that his love will be in them.
Christ laid the groundwork. St. Francis walked the path. Let’s do our part today: Volunteer, donate, or simply pray for organizations that promote peace and justice.
Born in Haiti and brought to New York City as a slave, Venerable Pierre Toussaint lived an exemplary Catholic life both before and after gaining his freedom. Married and then widowed, Pierre continued his charitable works well into his elder years.
We never walk alone as persons of faith. Jesus’ words remind us that what God asks of us, he promises the strength and fortitude to see it through.
Saint Augustine of Canterbury, a monk, was the first bishop of Canterbury. While he only labored for another eight years after establishing the diocese, his influence lives on. Part of his success, limited though it was, was due to his compassionate approach to the local peoples.
It is Jesus’ promise that even though all must die on their earthly journey, it is only the beginning of eternal life with God. Death is not final, but only the passage way into unending life with God and our loved ones.
Jesus’ words tell us that we must all let go and accept our spiritual passage back to the light when the time comes.
