Daily Gospel Reflection for May 8, 2018

Today's Gospel: John 16:5-11 In this Gospel, Jesus is trying to express to the disciples that He will be leaving. It is the night before the Crucifixion. They are confused and depressed. They ask where He’s going. He tells them He will be going with the Father and they will not be able to see Him. They truly are confused and bewildered over Jesus leaving them. He tries to explain that when He leaves them they will not be alone because He will send the Holy Spirit to them. The Holy Spirit will not only be with them; He will be part of them. Reading further, you realize that the disciples are so caught up in their own sorrows, they seem to have a hard time identifying the sorrows Jesus will be facing. This is when you realize that His disciples were very human. Just like the disciples, we sometimes become so wrapped up in our own difficulties it’s hard to "see the forest for the trees." I remember when I had cancer all I could think about was how I was going to get through it. I did not realize how difficult this was for my family. My husband specifically was having so much difficulty just getting through the day-to-day responsibilities. My sister stepped up and helped us all. I will always be grateful for her level of understanding. We have to remember the Holy Spirit is dwelling in each of us who believe and stay close to Christ. He is one with Jesus. We have to only remember to ask for His help and in His time, it will be given.

Ponder:

Jesus, is it possible that I have ignored Your presence when You are with me all the time?

Pray:

I apologize, Jesus, for the times when I get so wrapped up in my own troubles that I have not thought about how they impact those around me. Thank You for the gift of the Holy Spirit who is always part of me. With Your help, I hope to always embrace Your gifts to me.