The Joy of the Gospel

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I need to be honest.  I didn’t want to write an entry for the blog this month.  You may recall my entry in July about the Iraqi Dominicans and the tragedy that is unfolding.  Now you may know that much more horror has unfolded.  All the Christians and other minorities in the Nineveh Plain had to flee into the Kurdish region, of the desperation of people’s lives and the humanitarian crisis.

So what’s with my entry title?  I am preparing a day of reflection for a grammar school faculty & staff and have been rereading Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation: The Joy of the Gospel. 

In his introductory section he writes:  “I realize of course that joy is not expressed the same way at all times in life, especially at moments of great difficulty… I understand the grief of people who have to endure great suffering, yet slowly but surely we all have to let the joy of faith slowly revive as a quiet yet firm trust, even amid the greatest distress…” (paragraph 6)

While in ministry I have been called to prepare for this retreat day, the Holy Spirit has called me to a reminder of God’s love and care for all of us, regardless of life’s situations.  Does it take away my worry for people I know, places I have visited, or my prayers of lament?  No.  Rather, I am reminded God has not abandoned any of us - is with us in our sorrows and our joys.

Regardless of what your day is bringing – as you read this blog entry – open yourself to God – who loves and cares about your life and what is happening right now!

Roberta A Popara, O.P.

North Palm Beach  FL


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