It is 21st May 2020. We celebrate the memorial of St. Eucgene de Mazenod, the founder of the Congregation of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, and Saint Christopher Magallanes and Companions, Martyrs.
The readings are from Acts 18:1-8; and the Gospel from John 16:16-20.
As we are in the “Laudato Si′ Week,” we need to reflect a little while what have we done so far to the common home and in return what the common home has done to us during this most painful moment of our existence.
In attempting to protect and preserve the humanity from the merciless jaws of pandemic, the efforts and sacrifices made by the human community is unprecedented and overwhelming.
The origins of the virus remain controversial yet the lessons learnt so far at the cost of losing so many lives and loss of human resources.
We still believe that the pandemic will come to an end in a little while.
When we part, we console telling each other that we would meet in a little while somewhere someday.
Parting and departing are most painful.
At the start of the pandemic, most of us just thought we would see each other in a little while.
Little while is a prolonged little while so far over-stretched.
The question is when will this little while come to an end is whipping all our minds.
The readings of the day offer the courage and consolation we all await in patience.
We need to move on like Paul. The failed mission in Athens did not shrink the vision of Paul and his companions.
We need to be ready to embrace the changes ahead of us with openness and faith.
“The world as we know it is passing away” (1 Cor 7:31).
Adaptability and adjustments are the appropriate responses when human security is at stake.
There are many Priscilla and Aquila out there to offer the support we need to spread hope, healing and happiness.
The responsorial Psalm praises, “The Lord has revealed to the nations his saving power.” (Ps.98:20)
The Gospel consoles us, “Very truly, I tell you, you will weep and mourn, but the world will rejoice; you will have pain, but your pain will turn into joy.” (Jn. 16:20).
In a little while, we experience the joy of the Holy Spirit. The pain of sin cannot suffocate us as the unstoppable breeze of joy dabs the layers of pain lining.
Pain is a privilege and an opportunity to experience the joy of the Holy spirit.
Pain is not permanent but joy is lasting.
“See, I am making all things new” (Revelation 21:5).
Only the Lord can turn the water to wine, storm to calm, pain to gain, and suffering to salvation.
We see Him in a little while when this little while passes by. May you have a good day. God bless you.