Thursday of the Sixth Week of Easter
As the cliché says, our lives are quickly changing. In the first reading, we see Paul failing to convince his own people that Jesus was the Messiah, and so he moves on to Plan B, the Gentiles. And in our Gospel, Jesus is once again speaking in cryptic language about his death and resurrection that will happen ‘in a little while.’
Why is it that life seems to be constantly changing, passing quickly? People today on average live longer than ever before, so why does life seem to go so fast? It’s easy to imagine humanity experiencing it as long and slow instead of short and quick. Perhaps it is because we were made for eternity. Any finite, transient existence would seem short and fast when compared with eternity. So during our Earthly existence, we find ourselves disappointed. We long for something greater.
In the Gospel, Jesus is preparing us for the momentary disappointment that the Christian life can bring: “In a little while, you will no longer see me.” Whether it’s the literal death of Christ during the Triduum, or the spiritual deaths we die, it can seem for a time that Jesus is out of sight. Is Jesus’s presence clear to you now? If nothing is inhibiting your relationship with Christ, praise the Lord! But remember to be prepared for the day ‘in a little while’ when it could change. Does God seem distant? Perhaps you’re struggling and stuck in sin… perhaps the way you lived and believed as a new believer has become stale and in need of renewal…perhaps you’re filled with grief and cannot see God through our tears… perhaps a health problem is getting worse instead of better…
Whatever the case, there is Good News and Easter Joy coming ‘in a little while.’ Jesus promises, ‘your grief will become joy.’ Our psalm proclaims that every nation will see the wondrous deeds of the Lord. We sing a new song because of God’s kindness, faithfulness, and justice. God remains a firm foundation. The Spirit’s love and healing presence is worthy of perpetual adoration! Today, whether Jesus feels close or distant to you, lets remember that though this world is constantly changing, God remains the same yesterday, today, and always. Praise the Lord! Amen!
Chris Nieport