Scripture:
Reflection:
Psalm 149:4 The Lord takes delight in his people
John 14:6 I am the way and the truth and the life, says the Lord;
No one come to the Father except through me.
Psalm 149: 4 is a hymn inviting the people of Israel to celebrate their God in song and festive dance because God has chosen them and given them victory (4). In John: 6 we hear Jesus tell us HE is the Way and the Truth and with him is new Life, a place in the Kingdom! As believing members of the Body of Christ, these words that come to us this day from scripture should bring us immense joy and hope. So many times in our busy, harried day to day life we get overwhelmed with trying to ‘do it all ourselves’! This oftentimes leads us to frustration and desperation! We live in a frightfully fast-paced life that can overshadow the message of hope which we can find in Jesus!
In the past month, our world has been besieged by incredible tragedy. Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, Jose and Maria as well as the earthquakes in Mexico have left a path of destruction and devastation everywhere we turn. Millions of suffering people have been left in its wake. As I write this reflection this day, I continue to be overwhelmed by the ever-present reality that surrounds us daily through the media and technology that brings these sad situations into our homes and lives.
In the aftermath of these tragedies, as we search for ways to bring hope and healing to so many, the words of Jesus are a light in the darkness. Let us remember these words and take them to heart and really focus on how much better our lives can be when we stay rooted in Jesus Christ. We are a blessed people truly loved by our God and called to spread God’s message of hope and peace to all. Amen. Alleluia!
Theresa Secord is a Pastoral Associate at St. Agnes Parish, Louisville, Kentucky.