Daily Gospel Reflection for May 25, 2022

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Reflection by Margaret Ann Stimatz.

Today's Gospel: John 16:12-15

“I have much more to tell you, but you cannot bear it now. But when he comes, the Spirit of truth, he will guide you to all truth.”

Adults, particularly parents, are attuned to protecting the young. When children are tiny, it’s obvious that they lack the capacity to bear any but the most concrete and simple truths. But as they develop, it becomes more difficult to discern their ability. Can she comprehend this? Can he digest this? Is she ready to be told about her adoption? Is it time to tell him I was married before? And when they ask questions—whether they are toddlers, teens, or tweens—tailoring our answers to their maturity and to other salient factors can be challenging. It’s easy to divulge too much too soon or to hover helicopter-like and withhold truth that needs to be told.

We may face similar difficulties with discernment in adult relationships as well, as we ponder whether the time is right or whether someone—a boss, a spouse, a friend—is ready to hear what we need to share.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus treats His fragile and vulnerable disciples with perfect wisdom and sensitivity, understanding that now they require protection from truth that might devastate, and only later, with the Holy Spirit’s guidance, will they be ready to tolerate all truth. So, when we are struggling to discern what to say and when to say it, let us turn to Jesus and ask for His perfect wisdom, understanding, and help.

Ponder:

Am I inclined to unload too much truth too soon? Do I tend to withhold the truth because I fear the recipient’s response?

Pray:

Lord, please help me communicate with Your wisdom and sensitivity.

Click to tweet:
When I am struggling to discern how much to say and when, let me turn to Jesus. #dailygospel

Copyright 2022 Margaret Ann Stimatz