But your grief will be transformed to joy!

Readings: 1st: Acts 18:9-18; Ps: 48; Gos: Jn 16:20-23

This brief reflection was written by Rev. Fr. Njoku Canice Chukwuemeka, C.S.Sp. He is a Catholic Priest and a Member of the Congregation of the Holy Ghost Fathers and Brothers (Spiritans). He is currently working with the Spiritan International Group of Puerto Rico &  Dominican Republic. He is the Administrator of Parroquia La Resurrección del Senor, Canovanas and the Chancellor of the Diocesis of Fajardo-Humacao, Puerto Rico. For more details and comments contact him on: canice_c_njoku@yahoo.com, cancilleriadfh@gmail.com, canicechukwuemeka@gmail.com 

On this Friday of the sixth week of Easter, the gospel is taken from the part of John’s gospel called, “the book of consolation.” During these days between the Ascension and Pentecost, we shall read from this book (Chapters 16 to 21).

Today, Christ makes a beautiful comparison with the pangs of childbirth. Every woman who has given birth to a child, knows this truth. Once a mother successfully delivers here baby, her pain and distress are transformed to joy

Through this everyday event in our society, Christ reminds us of how our pain can turn to joy. Hence, he encouraged us to be patient at every moment of life. Especially, during moments that we must wait for something to happen.

Christ is not talking of an empty or a senseless waiting. Rather, he is talking of the waiting that offers us an opportunity to grow in trust, and to deepen our relationship with God. It is, a waiting sustained by a strong faith.

So, after the faithful period of waiting, full of sufferings and pains, Christ gives us this assurance: “You will be weep and wail while the world rejoices. You will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn to joy.”

Of course, joy always comes last. It is the crown for being faithful. It is the icing on the cake of every faithful Christian. It is a precious gift, because it leads us to eternal life, where there shall be no more pain or weeping (Rev 21:4).

This is the certainty that must give us the courage to march on. Especially, at this moment that most of us seem tired. “You are sad now, but I shall see you again, and your hearts will be full of joy and one can take that joy away from you.”

Yes, it is true because, it is a personal gift for your endurance and faithfulness. So, let us pray, that God may keep us faithful, till we see the Lord again in his glory and splendor. Alleluia, Alleluia!

Peace be with you all!

Maranatha!