Daily Reflections ...

“It’s like in the great stories, Mr. Frodo. The ones that really mattered. Full of darkness and danger they were… But I think, Mr. Frodo, I do understand. I know now. Folk in those stories had lots of chances of turning back, only they didn’t. They kept going, because they were holding on to something. That there is some good in this world, and it’s worth fighting for.” (J.R.R. Tolkien, The Two Towers) 

As I read today’s gospel, I can’t help but wonder what sort of story those disciples, turned apostles, thought they were stepping into. From our place in history, we know what happened to each of them. Their voices went ‘out through all the earth’ (see today’s Psalm 18:2-5) with the message of Jesus. On their sometimes dark and dangerous journey, I can imagine they had many chances of turning back. But they didn’t – their martyrdom is proof of that. 

How can we possibly measure the gift that we have received because of their witness? Just ponder that! 

As the feast of All Saints approaches, let’s give thanks to God for all those who have shared the love of Jesus with us. Let’s also step more deeply into this great story – the greatest one in fact. Who in our life needs to hear the Good News of Jesus that was passed to us?  

Lord, please show me how I can be your witness today. Please give me the grace to hold on to you and to share your love with everyone I meet. 

by Chantale Wilson