Scripture:
Reflection:
More Than Good-bye
As summertime unfolds for those of us in the northern hemisphere, many of us will embark upon summer vacation trips of various lengths, perhaps briefly visiting some relatives or an interesting vacation destination. Some of us will move to a new residence; others will be on the “receiving end” of such comings and goings. In each, there is a hello…and a goodbye. Today’s Scriptures invite us to ponder: What thoughts and feelings are included as we say “good-bye”?
Our two scripture readings relay some famous “good-byes”: the Acts of the Apostles has the apostle Paul saying good-bye to the Church at Ephesus, which he had served for years. He exhorts the leaders to be faithful shepherds, humbly serving the needs of the congregation as they likely faced many trials: “…keep watch…be vigilant…remember…” In John’s Gospel selection, we peek over Jesus’ “shoulder” as he prays his final prayer for his disciples, asking the Father to protect them from the evils of the world. He asks the Father to keep them united and joyful, praying that they be consecrated to the truth of God’s Word. Truly, both readings add touching brushstrokes to the human dimensions of our goodbyes to those close to us.
Our goodbyes can convey all sorts of deep feelings: comfort, reassurance, encouragement, challenge, advice, forgiveness, love. No doubt Jesus and the apostle Paul had those same feelings flowing from their hearts as they “moved on” in fulfilling God’s will in their lives. Jesus’ good-bye prayer for His disciples reveals His all-embracing love for us and thus becomes a supporting guide for our close relationships.
As we say our good-byes to the beauty of this recent Easter Season, and with Pope Leo XIV look forward to the gift of the Holy Spirit this Pentecost, may we hear Jesus’ words addressed to us as 21st century disciples: “…may they be one as We are one…may they share My joy completely…keep them from the Evil One…consecrate them in truth….” Jesus’ love for each of us continues to grow and deepen, and we are challenged to accept and witness that love in our daily lives. In a very real sense, our “goodbyes” are transformed by Jesus into messages of dynamic unity, joy and welcome.
To which we eagerly say: Amen! Alleluia!
Fr. John Schork, C.P. serves as the Province Vocation Director and also as Local Superior of the Passionist Community of Holy Name in Houston, Texas.