Tuesday of the Seventh Week of Easter
I glorified you on earth by accomplishing the work that you gave me to do.
John 17: 4
The readings in this Ascension to Pentecost time reflect on completing our life’s work, as given by God. Both Paul (Acts first reading text) and Jesus in his beautiful dialogue with his Father, are reflecting on responding to their calls and completing their work on earth. Paul’s goal was to give witness to God’s grace. Jesus speaks of glorifying God, and God’s glory being known through Him.
So what does it mean to glorify God? Glory pertains to making God’s presence, holiness and beauty known - known in both the visible attributes such as the beauty of Creation, and the more invisible or less tangible aspects such as the manifestation of God’s plan, goodness and grace. We are called to awe, reverence and wonder in response to the power of God’s love, promise and companionships. Jesus’ prayer invites us to see eternal life as not just what happens after we die - but in the experience of knowing ‘the only true God, and the one whom God sent, Jesus Christ’.
It is fitting that the month of May, with its Easter season and Pentecost, is often when there are many events that manifest God’s glory. Along with the beauty of springtime, God’s presence is expressed in recipients of Sacraments such as the wonder of first communion children and the glow of deep love emanating from newlyweds. This year I have had the wonderful gift of living with my Sister Emily Sandoval FMI as she prepares to profess her perpetual vows as a Daughter of Mary Immaculate - Marianists this Pentecost weekend. She has taken extended times of prayer and retreat days and her joy is radiating. This week, may we reflect on the unique call and work God has given each of us to do, and ask the Spirit to give us the gifts and grace to enter wholeheartedly into accomplishing this good work. Together, may we reflect heaven on earth as a ‘spectacle of saints’ (a favorite image of Marianist founder Father Chaminade). Our communities glorify God through the powerful witness of our living the gospel with loving care and service to all.
—Sr. Leanne Jablonski, FMI
Marianist Sister