Daily Retreat 05/22/06

2006 May 22 Mon: Easter Weekday/ Rita of Cascia, r

Acts 16: 11-15/ Ps 149: 1b-2. 3-4. 5-6a and 9b/ Jn 15: 26 -- 16: 4a

From today’s readings: "...the Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what Paul was saying.... The Lord takes delight in His people.... I have told you this so that you may not be scandalized."

Remembering What He Told Us

All four of the gospels mention that the disciples often enough did not completely understand the words of Jesus at the time they were spoken. However, even when they didn’t understand completely, the disciples still listened attentively to the Lord, and so after His Resurrection and the pentecostal inspiration from the Holy Spirit, they were able to prayerfully recall and come to understand fully the teachings of Jesus.

For our part, it is important that we too listen attentively and strive to comprehend the sacred words of scripture. Yet, even after carefully listening throughout the Liturgy of the Word and re-reading the lectionary verses, it can happen that certain passages will remain unclear to us for the moment. Often, more in-depth scripture study will be enlightening, but most importantly, if we humbly pray that the Lord will help us understand and remember His words, He certainly will give us that blessing in the time and circumstances He deems best, for His words of life are meant to guide us all our life!