Love and joy are two beautiful gifts that we not only receive, but can freely give to those we encounter each day. Have you been able to receive and give love and joy? Perhaps a little perspective will help us offer and accept these gifts more readily.
The Glorious Mysteries give us reason to celebrate! The resurrection of Jesus, His ascension into Heaven, the descent of the Holy Spirit, the assumption of Mary into Heaven, and the crowning of Mary as Queen of Heaven are some pretty spectacular moments in our Catholic faith. These mysteries give me a sense of excitement and perspective. Prayed on Wednesday and Sunday, these events help us remember that the crucifixion isn’t the end of the story.
The resurrection of Jesus is the epitome of gaining the perspective. We can all get lost in the darkness and sadness of our lives. Health concerns, kids in trouble, work challenges; it can feel all-consuming. Even the apostles, who despite, the time they spent with Jesus, doubted His promise to rise again. They got lost in the sadness of His death. Yet, in the quiet of that Sunday morning, He makes good on His promise. He left behind sin and death to breathe life into the world. His resurrection reminds us that the difficult times in our lives are temporary. That goodness and glory await us on the other side of the sadness. His resurrection turns darkness into light and sorrow into joy. As you meditate on this mystery, consider how Jesus and Mary can help you to change your despair into hope.
Upon His ascension into Heaven, Jesus is making good on the promise to prepare a dwelling place for us in His Father’s house. (see John 14: 2-3). Our eternal reward is in Heaven, so we need to ask some questions to keep our lives in perspective. What matters in Heaven? Am I living in such a way that emphasizes what is important in Heaven? Am I giving to those in need or earning more for myself? Do I love all those who Jesus puts in my life? Or am I stepping over them to have the “right” friends? Finally, am I praying in praise and thanksgiving for all I have, or do I take the gifts for granted and think I deserve them? Our lives on Earth are quite finite; our afterlife is an eternity. Do you want to spend your time on this Earth seeking its passing treasures or collecting treasure in Heaven?
As promised, Jesus sends us the Holy Spirit! Our advocate and guide. In Galatians 5:22, St. Paul tells us the fruits of the Holy Spirit are “…love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” What if these fruits were the lens from which we viewed the world, our neighbors, our family, and ourselves? Choosing to shift our perspective in such a manner can change every interaction we have in a day. Do you take the time to listen for the Holy Spirit to help you see how you can make a difference using the gifts and fruits bestowed upon you?
The final two mysteries bring us to Mary. From the cross, Jesus gives us His mother, “Woman, behold your son.” Then he said to his disciple, “Behold, your mother.” (John 19:26-27) Some of us have lost our earthly mother or perhaps never developed a close relationship with her. However, we have Mary, the Queen of Heaven! We are never without a loving mother. When you think of Mary, what traits come to mind? In my heart, Mary is gentle, holy, quick to forgive, patient, reflective, faithful, open to possibility, and trusting of God. If we take the opportunity to learn these traits from our Heavenly Mother, how might they change how we view ourselves, speak to our children and spouse, or relate to God? We are NEVER too old to need gentle encouragement, holy advice, or motherly love. St. Teresa of Calcutta (Mother Teresa) offers us a simple prayer to speak in those times of need, “Mary, Mother of Jesus, please be a mother to me now.”
The perspective I gained from these mysteries – Jesus is a promise keeper. In every instance, He kept His word. Jesus rose, ascended, sent us an advocate, and gave us His mother – just as promised. How does knowing He is a God of His word change your perspective of Him?
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me.”
John 14:1
Thank you Linda for these encouraging words. The perspective you bring to your writing is a gift. I hope you guys are having a blessed summer. STeph Gauger
At this difficult time it is comforting to know our dearst Mother Mary is wrapping her mantle of love and protection around us.
Very beautiful Linda. You have given us many things to ponder. Thanks my friend.
Linda, you truly have a gift for writing and providing a sense of calm and comfort! Jesus speaks through you. Love you, my friend! ❤️