Greetings on this the Friday of the Sixth Week of Easter
Readings: Acts 18:9-18; Psalm 47:2-3, 4-5, 6-7; John 16:20-23
Summary
When a woman is in labor, she is in anguish because her hour has arrived; but when she has given birth to a child, she no longer remembers the pain because of her joy that a child has been born into the world (Jn 16:21).
Reflection
In our sacred scripture today, Jesus uses the analogy of a woman in labor pains to describe the intense feelings his followers will have about his Crucifixion and Ascension which is to be followed by the birth of the Church at Pentecost. I find this one quote of Jesus to be most profound. Jesus is validating every Mother and bringing their experiences into the Divine Plan of Salvation. What women know, men must approximate. Jesus, for his part, sanctifies pregnancy, labor and love of the Maternal unto the very bosom of God – He Ascends with the birthing pains of women and at Pentecost the joy of childbirth.
- Anguish and pain – the the Lord is taken away, first in Crucifixion and then to His Glorious Ascension to the Right Hand of the Father.
- Followed by joy – that the Church has been born.
Personal Reflection
Life is filled with transitions. There are little transitions, moderate transitions and major transitions. All of them (minor and major) should be “held in suspense” for the greater purpose of the Return to the Lord. Each of us will go through Death and New Birth. And let us also have a renewed awe of our Mothers, Sisters and all women who give birth to new life. Jesus did.
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/051526.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry