Reflect on God's love and the importance of accepting His answers to our prayers, even when they are not what we want. Discover strength in trust and faith.
Today's Gospel: John 16:23b-28
Today would have been my father’s 85th birthday; he passed away a little over four years ago. There was nothing my father wouldn’t do for me – except allow me to wear that outfit, hang out with those “friends,” or attend that not-really-Catholic college. Yes, there were times when my father told me no. I didn’t always understand or care to see the wisdom in his decisions. Nonetheless, love motivated him to be firm.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus, in His final hours with the disciples, is pouring His heart out to them. No longer does He speak in parables. He clearly tells them that He is returning soon to the Father. Jesus assures the apostles that the Father loves them and will hear and answer their prayers.
We are children of our heavenly Father. He loves us dearly, more than we can comprehend. He hears our prayers and knows our needs. But He does not always give us what we ask for.
Even in our darkest moments, when we plead, “Father, if it is possible, please let this cup pass from me,” the Father might say, “No.” Still, He stays close beside us, leading us through the darkness that requires trust, through the difficulty that makes us stronger because He truly does love us.
Jesus came into the world to reveal God’s great love for us. He is now seated at the right hand of the Father, where He prepares a place for us. Meanwhile, while we remain in the world, we share God’s love with those around us. Then, when our mission is complete, Jesus will bring us, who have believed and loved Him, to our true heavenly home.
Ponder:
How do I react when the Father does not answer my prayer when and how I want--like a bratty toddler, a mopey teen, or a mature adult?
Pray:
Heavenly Father, thank You for hearing my prayers and loving me enough to say yes when You can and no when You ought. Help me to always accept Your answer.
Pray Together:
Tell about a time when you were told no. How did it make you feel? Looking back, why might no have been the loving answer?
Copyright 2026 Kelly Guest
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