Between you and me, I could use some good news right now. I can’t decide whether the world is more pain-filled than before, or I am just more aware of the pain. As inward journey practices quiet my mind, I am acutely aware of the pain and suffering both around and within me. My outward journey practices to transmute that pain are like drops in the ocean.
Be still and know that I am God. Be not afraid, I go before you always. Be transformed by the renewal of your mind. As I scan the horizon, I long for more comfort than I find in these words at this moment.
Today’s gospel reading* bears the headline “Jesus Announces Good News” in my bible. Instead of the good news of no more war, sickness or disaster or even John’s release from prison, Jesus’ good news comes as the whisper of a prophesy fulfilled, an anticipation of new beginnings and the promise of companionship. The time is now. The waiting is over. God’s kingdom is at hand. Jesus’ good news is an invitation to see the world differently, to gaze tenderly on present circumstances and to follow Jesus into a lifestyle that expresses the living presence of our Divine Creator. With the words “come follow me” Jesus began his ministry by forming a community willing to leave what did not serve God’s purpose behind and wade on in. I’m so grateful that this invitation is not just for me – it’s for us. The good news is that God has called us each by name. The good news is that we need each other. The good news is that we have each other. Together with you I am strengthened to see how close we can come to transforming that ocean, drop by drop.
