Sunday, April 14, 2024
This past weekend, I was swept up in the conclusion of March Madness, college basketball’s men’s and women’s tournaments. I appreciated the high levels of athleticism and incredible skills that were on display by the student-athletes. While it was nice to see winning teams and their fans joyfully celebrate the wins, I was moved by the sadness and even tears coming from some of the young men and women. TV cameras followed these amazing athletes into their locker rooms. It was good to hear their coaches congratulate them and remind them of their exceptional season and accomplishments.
We all have moments when we suffer disappointments, sadness, fear, and loneliness. Negative feelings seep in and blur our thoughts and vision. They act as a tarp covering up what is essential, our reality, dampening our spirit. Sometimes, it takes a simple thought or question that comes to mind or from a loved one to peel away the tarp and bring back the light of truth.
“Why are you troubled? And why do questions arise in your hearts?” Luke 24:38. The questions Jesus posed to His disciples were meant to help them overcome their fears and remind them of God’s promise of salvation, written in Psalms, preached by the Prophets, and foretold by Jesus. The disciples were overcome with fear and disappointment and faced hardships that caused them to lose perspective and hope.
What takes away our peace? Perhaps an unfulfilling job or one we are not happy with? Maybe it is something we see or hear from a spouse or a family member. Financial insecurity, burdens, responsibilities, fear, regret, and guilt can all contribute to taking away our peace. But Jesus gives us peace that is always there for us to take. Push aside those dreadful feelings, and let God’s peace fill you.
In today’s Gospel, we read St. Luke’s account of Jesus appearing to His disciples to bring them peace, to open their minds, and to call them to preach in His name. God wants to do the same for us if we can only recognize those moments. Encounters with God and His splendor can be subtle. You see it in a baby’s new life, in blooming flowers in springtime, in a rare solar eclipse, and everyday interactions with people. We can also seek encounters with God in the Scriptures, prayer, and the sacraments. Spend time with God every day reading the Bible. When you pray, do it when you’re not rushing, too tired, or distracted. As you walk up at mass to receive the holy Eucharist, focus on it being an encounter with Jesus. It is a constant that is always there for us. A powerful and uplifting encounter. How can we be troubled when we take “The Author of life,” the One St. John called our advocate, into our hearts?
Go in Peace to Love and Serve the Lord.