TAKING COURAGE WITH THE LORD
With the Solemnity of the Ascension just yesterday, we are in a mood of serene acceptance, calm and confidence. Similar to the disciples’ reaction to Jesus in the Gospel of today, we can rest our case and just let Jesus be. We, too, are telling Him, “There is no need for anyone to ask you questions.” But Jesus shatters our naiveté again. “An hour is coming... when you will be scattered and each will go his way... You will suffer in the world.” Sure, the inescapable realities of hardship and suffering are ours as well. Elsewhere our Lord Jesus declared, “If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you” (John 15:20). But the best part is that the very same Jesus — who endured suffering for our sake — is assuring us, “I tell you all this that in me you may find peace. You will suffer in the world. But take courage! I have overcome the world.”
It’s quite hard to believe that Jesus first uttered these words on the night before He died, shortly before He was captured and tried. “I have overcome the world.” How could He have said that?
In hindsight, we do know that He is right, just as He always is. He has, indeed, overcome the world. What a jump from His saying, “You will suffer in the world,” to “I have overcome the world.”
It is such a power of Jesus Christ which gives us the proper serenity, confidence and calm. Not any sort of cocky naiveté on our part. Rather, it is Jesus — and Jesus alone. Indeed, He alone is our rock, our fortress, our shield, our place of refuge. With Him alone, we truly do not need to ask Him any more questions. With Him alone, we can indeed take courage. Fr. Martin Macasaet, SDB
REFLECTION QUESTIONS: What helps you overcome your trials and difficulties? Do you take courage in Jesus’ words?
Lord Jesus, grant me courage, serenity and confidence in the midst of a challenging world.
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