Clarity in Time . . .

Guest blogger: Jay

Recently, a buddy reminded me of a M-A-S-H episode where Hawkeye Pierce learned that a young soldier, working as one of his medics, had used a false ID in order to join the Army. Hawkeye had a dilemma he proceeded to discuss and work through with fellow surgeon Trapper John during the show.  In the end, the viewers see the very angry young man being sent home. The camera then scans back to a very calm and peaceful Hawkeye Pierce . . . who turning and walking back to work . . . jocosely shares with Trapper John that he hopes the young man is mad at him . . . for a very long and healthy life. Sometimes we don’t understand what our leaders or superiors are doing. Sometimes we are angry at their decisions. Sometimes all we are able to see is a small piece of the overall picture . . . and it does not make sense.

These are the times where we may need to blindly follow . . . because we trust their leadership. We believe them to be wise and integrous . . . and are willing to follow. In todays Gospel (John 21:20-25), Peter asks Jesus a very logical question . . . and Jesus responds in a way that perplexes Peter:

Peter turned and saw the disciple following whom Jesus loved, the one who had also reclined upon his chest during the supper and had said, “Master, who is the one who will betray you?” When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, “Lord, what about him?” Jesus said to him, “What if I want him to remain until I come? What concern is it of yours?  You follow me.” So the word spread among the brothers that that disciple would not die. But Jesus had not told him that he would not die, just “What if I want him to remain until I come? What concern is it of yours?”

It is this disciple who testifies to these things and has written them, and we know that his testimony is true. There are also many other things that Jesus did, but if these were to be described individually, I do not think the whole world would contain the books that would be written.

In Heaven Speaks About Addictions, St. Barnabas assures we will understand:

"Your role in the Kingdom will become clear to you and you will use this clarity to illuminate others. Think back on your life to those who have helped you through difficulties. These souls were serving heaven. You must do the same. There are many souls whom you are destined to assist."

Lay Apostles, I once heard it said that trying to understand God’s plan . . . and this life . . . can be very much like viewing a tapestry from the back side. Some things make sense . . . but a large portion appears messy, knotted, and gnarled. How could any of this ever make sense? The speaker went on to say he believed one day we’d be allowed to view the tapestry turned around and not only would it make perfect sense, it would be spectacular.

Father, thank you for all the blessings you continue to give us every day. The blessings we understand . . . as well as the others that make absolutely no sense to us at this point in time. Please help us to trust You completely in this journey. We look forward to the day we see the spectacular.

In humility and gratitude,

Jay