Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary
Today’s readings have the common theme of joy. In the first reading, Baruch consoled the exiled Israelites that even in their time of sorrow, God will bring back their joy. He reminds us that joy can exist even in the most challenging times of life. The psalm reminds us that to seek God causes joy. There is joy in God listening to the lowly, the poor, and the imprisoned. In Luke, the seventy-two disciples were rejoicing at what happened when they traveled, proclaimed the Gospel to others, and cast out demons. Jesus told them that they should rejoice because of God’s work through them and not because they have power over demons.
The theme of joy came up during one of my annual retreats a couple of years ago. During that time, I read the book Between Heaven and Mirth by James Martin, SJ in which he connects humor and gratitude with joy and spiritual life. Perhaps the connection between humor and joy is obvious, but a sense of gratitude can deepen joy. I don’t know about you, but sometimes I focus too much on what is negative. However, when I pray with what I’m grateful for, I realize that I have many more blessings.
The joy referred to in these readings and from gratitude come from God. A joy that is rooted in God can give us strength even when we’re struggling. In his reflection in the booklet Give Us This Day, Br. Guy Consolmagno, SJ wrote, “We are made to be joyful.” To be joyful is to be with God and God’s loving embrace. I pray that you may experience deep joy in your life.
-Sr. Emily Sandoval, FMI