This past Thursday we celebrated the Ascension of the Lord, but when you look at today’s Gospel, it seems that Jesus hasn’t ascended yet because this is Jesus’ final prayer for his followers. It is a beautiful prayer, filled with Jesus’ love and concern for his disciples. Jesus asks the Father to protect us and he wants us to share in his joy completely. He is also realistic because he says that the world has a hatred for those who follow him. In spite of this, Jesus concludes by saying that he wants us “in the world”, a world that needs his message and yet will resist it. We have all experienced this, yet we have to remember that this is where Jesus wants us… because we have his message which he has entrusted to each of us. He trusts us and believes in us.
On this Mothers’ Day, the Friars and Staff of St. Francis, wish all Mothers, Grandmothers, Great Grandmothers, and the Motherly, a blessed and happy day. Our prayers are with you and we are grateful for all that you do for us.
Please keep us Friars in your prayers. At the end of this month our six Provinces (geographical areas in the United States) will vote on whether to become one Province or not. It is a big decision. Your prayers are appreciated!
-Fr. Andrew Reitz, O.F.M.