Thursday of the Fourth Week of Easter
As a child, I can remember how much I enjoyed doing connect-the-dot pictures. You would go from point to point, but unless you stood back to look at the picture, you may not have a good idea what the picture might be. Today’s readings remind me about the importance of stepping back and recognizing the many points (or dots) that are part of our journey of faith. From the beginning of time until now, God has been creating a marvelous picture that reveals the story of God’s love for each of us.
In the first reading, St. Paul uses the scripture stories about the prophets and kings to help his listeners understand how God has been working throughout the past to reveal God’s plan for the Israelites and all of creation. David and finally John the Baptist are two more points on the timeline that lead us to recognizing Jesus as the savior promised by God. St. Paul highlights that John the Baptist says, “Behold, one is coming after me: I am not worthy to unfasten the sandals of his feet.”(Acts 13:25)
In the Gospel reading, Jesus continues to reveal that He is the one sent by the Father. He reminds His disciples that as they go forth sharing the Good News, faith in Jesus will allow future believers to see God‘s work in and throughout all of history. Jesus tells His disciples that He is “I AM”, the same God who spoke to Moses in the desert. Jesus says that those who “receive Jesus” also “receive the one who sent me.” (John 13:20) Jesus reminds each of His followers that as they go out and share Jesus’ message, they take part in the continuing revelation of God’s love to the world.
Whether I am struggling to believe or feeling strong in my faith, I find that taking the opportunity to step back and look at the many points on the my journey allows me to have a better picture of what God has done, is doing and is going to do in my life. Taking time to see God’s Hand in scripture and through the lives of saints- both those who lived long ago and the holy people in my midst- are some of the signs that help me see God’s work in my life. God also provides opportunities for connection through the sacraments, prayer, and through various experiences in my life. My dot-to-dot picture includes many errant tangents, but I am encouraged as I remember a saying attributed to St. Theresa of Avila- “God writes straight with crooked lines.” Similar to the connect-the-dot pictures of my youth, it is important to stop and step back to look at the page from afar in order to see the “bigger picture.” When I take time to reflect on all of the many points throughout my life where God has been present, I experience a sense of hope and peace knowing that even though the future seems frightening at times, I will not be alone. God will continue to provide future “dots” on my picture, as God leads me towards a greater trust in God’s goodness and love.
Today, let us pray for the grace to see how God has been present and active throughout history and in our lives. May our trust in God, allow us to seek and find Him on our future path. With gratefulness for God’s love and presence, may we proclaim, “Forever I will sing the goodness of the Lord!” (Ps 89:2)
—Marylynn Herchline