Here we invite you to take time for yourself in personal prayer. The following spiritual reflection offers words and images which we hope will evoke for you an experience of God.

By: Sister Karen Dietz

Opening Prayer

One thing I ask of my God, this I seek, to dwell in the house of my God all my days. Amen.

Reading

1 Peter 4: 13 - 16
Beloved:
Rejoice to the extent that you share in the sufferings of Christ,
so that when his glory is revealed
you may also rejoice exultantly.
If you are insulted for the name of Christ, blessed are you,
for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.
But let no one among you be made to suffer
as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as an intriguer.
But whoever is made to suffer as a Christian should not be ashamed
but glorify God because of the name.

Reflection

These many weeks of Easter serve to remind us that now it is our turn. We have been commissioned by our baptism to be the bearers of the Good News of Jesus. We do this with words when appropriate and with our actions. I think so many times it is our actions and our attitude that speaks so much more loudly than any words we use. As I examine my recent interactions, I think back to my words, of course, but also to my actions and reactions.

In both this reading from the letter to Peter and in the Gospel, I find myself asking the question, “what is my motivation?” As Peter points out, we share in the joys and sufferings of the world not for joy or suffering on its own, but to reveal the glory of God. Life is not without its trials, and we do suffer and we walk with others on their journey. Am I aware that as I experience these trials and accompany others, I am called to do so to bear witness to Jesus and glorify God? It seems to me that we can best do this as a member of the community. Witnessing to God’s glory in the midst of suffering as a lone agent is almost impossible. However, when we are in communion with others, supporting one another, we have the courage to praise God even through pain. What is your motivation as you experience pain, joys, and sorrows? Jesus, help me that I bring your message to others through my witness, in my words and in my responses.

Closing Prayer

I believe that I shall see the goodness of God in the land of the living, one day soon I will see. (Psalm 27)

Welcoming the Holy