Do Not Let Your Hearts Be Troubled

Reflecting upon the gospel for this Sunday (May 22 - 5th Sunday of Easter), I became aware how the exchange between Jesus and His disciples is one of farewell.  Jesus is getting ready to return to the Father and His words reflect the care and love of His heart for those who have been closest to Him and to whom He entrusts the life of the Church.  His words are loving yet challenging as He gives them direction for the future….their future and ours.

So many times I think of how the many details of the day can really drain my energy.  Trying to make sure that all the tasks of the moment are being handled, trying to keep track of the schedule, looking to the next event, all can become very overwhelming.  Then I remember.  I stop and breathe.  I'm not alone.  The Savior of the world is in me and reminding me, "do not let your heart be troubled."  At that moment I become increasingly aware that the things of this world are not as essential as the ones of the next.  I want to occupy that place that has been reserved for me, just for me.  It is only through The Way, The Truth and The Life that I'm going to get there.  I pause.  I give thanks.  I move on.  And the day seems a lot less stressful and a lot more joyful.