Today's Thoughts...

Today’s Thoughts: “I pray for them.” The words of Jesus from today’s Gospel (John 17: 1-11a). Throughout these closing days of the Easter season we hear over and over again Jesus’ desire for us to continue his mission and ministry in the world. He knows that it will not be easy so he prays to the Father that we might be taken care of just has the Father has taken care of him.
                                                                  
In the first reading (Acts 20: 17-27) St. Paul reflects on what lies ahead for him because he has taken up the mission of Jesus. He talks about being martyred. His time is short, and he realizes it.  He like Jesus, in the Gospel, is sending a message to his followers.  He has done his best; he has proclaimed the Gospel now they must carry on.
 
The message for us in these last days of Easter is to trust in the Spirit as we continue the ministry and mission of Jesus in our lives. The message is to do our best and to always know that Jesus is with us. He has offered us a relationship, a friendship with God. It is that friendship that St. Paul draws upon in living his life, in being challenged by the world around him and in staying faithful to his call. We are asked to do the same.
 
As we have often heard through these days of Easter God so loves the world that he has so fearfully, wonderfully made us so that as we live this day let us trust in our friendship with God and live the gift that God has created us to be!
 
Have a great Tuesday everyone!