Weekend Reflections for 4/29/16

It's never easy when a good friend says goodbye. Imagine Peter, as Jesus prepares to Ascend into Heaven.

Years earlier, Jesus saw Peter on the seashore and called him. Jesus lead him, listened to him, and spoke to Peter's heart. Jesus placed Peter as the head of the disciples. Jesus gave him the Eucharist and ordained him at the Last Supper. In fear, Peter ran from Jesus during the crucifixion. The Risen Jesus then appears to Peter to forgive him and welcome him back.

Now Jesus prepares Peter's heart for the next step in their relationship. Jesus will ascend to be with His Father. He is not abandoning the disciples, but will be with them in a new way. He will work through them, with them, and in them in powerful ways. His Spirit will spread the Gospel through their preaching and witness. Jesus is not saying goodbye; rather, He is promising a more intimate communion with them and us. He will be with with us always; we can listen and speak to Him anytime, anywhere.

How has Jesus done all of this in my life? As Catholics, most of us are baptized as babies. Thus, we become friends with Jesus even before we are aware; the initiative is entirely His. He forms us through family, teachers, and pastors. He feeds us with His Body and Blood at Mass.

He is closer to me than my other friends. They may be busy, unable to talk, or in a bad mood. He is always with me, ready to speak and listen. In Sunday's Gospel, Jesus tells us, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you." He brings peace to my life whenever I turn to Him. Next Sunday, we celebrate the feast of His Ascension. For now, He prepares us so that we can Ascend with Him.

Fr. Joe Laramie SJ

PLEASE PRAY FOR THOSE ON RETREAT THIS WEEK AS WELL AS OUR DECEASED RETREATANTS.

PLEASE PRAY FOR PEACE IN OUR COMMUNITY

UPCOMING RETREATS WITH SPACE:

Women: 5/19, 5/26, 8/4

Men: 5/12

CoEd: 9/2

www.whretreat.org

314-416-6400