Archives » April 29, 2008
But now I am going to him who sent me; yet none of you asks me, “Where are you going?” But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your hearts.
Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.
And when he comes, he will prove the world wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment: about sin, because they do not believe in me; about righteousness, because I am going to the Father and you will see me no longer; about judgement, because the ruler of this world has been condemned. Jn 16:5-11
The New Revised Standard Version (Anglicized Edition), copyright 1989, 1995 by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Permalink | Categories: Gospel Reading of the Day
A veterinarian had been called to examine a ten-year old Irish Wolfhound named Belker. The dog’s owners, Ron, his wife, Lisa, and their little boy, Shane, were very attached to Belker. They were hoping for a miracle.
Unfortunately the veterinarian determined that the dog was dying of cancer. Since there was nothing more the family could do for their beloved pet, the veterinarian offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in the family’s home.
As arrangements were made, Ron and Lisa told the doctor they would like four-year old Shane to observe the procedure. They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience.
The next day, the veterinarian felt the familiar catch in his throat as Belker’s family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time. Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.
The little boy accepted Belker’s transition without any difficulty or confusion. The doctor and Shane’s parents wondered aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives.
Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, “I know why.” The veterinarian had never heard a more comforting explanation. Shane said, “People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life — like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?” The four-year-old continued, “Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don’t have to stay as long.” (Unknown)
All of us look for comfort when death’s shadow numbs our life. When the apostles finally understand that Jesus must die, sorrow fills their hearts. Yet Jesus gives them hope – an incredible promise of God’s presence – a companion to be with them in their darkest moments.
“It is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.”
How many of us really grasp the power of the Holy Spirit; how many of us pray with expectation to “the Advocate.”?
Jesus speaks with certitude: “It is to your advantage that I go away.” Then the Advocate can direct us, breathe hope into hopeless situations, see our loved ones through their crossing and ultimately lead us to our eternal home.
Permalink | Categories: Living the Gospel Everyday
Your words today bring back memories, Jesus…..memories of my grief over loved ones who have – in one way or another – passed from my life.
Yet along with the memory comes strength and hope, for their passing has indeed made me a different person, a stronger person, one who relies more on you. Truly, your Spirit is at work transforming weakness into strength. Rev. Herbert Yost, CSC
Permalink | Categories: Prayer of the Day
