There are times when it feels like life is too hard, we are let down, or even feel betrayed as Paul shared in today’s first reading when he wrote: “At my first defense no one appeared on my behalf, but everyone deserted me” (2 Timothy 4:16). And then in today’s gospel, Jesus sent seventy-two of his disciples off “like lambs among wolves.” He gave them nothing to take with them, “no money bag, no sack, no sandals” (Luke 10:4).  

Both Paul and the disciples experienced the limitations of our fallen and finite world. Paul through having no one there for him in his time of need and the disciples by Jesus’ direction. In both situations, there was the opportunity offered to recognize that the only one we can place our firm foundation on is God. Nothing or no one else can be there for us like him.

When we find ourselves in challenging moments, we need to remember that we are not alone. We need to draw on the same strength and source that Paul did, and we too will experience the Lord standing by us and giving us his strength because Jesus is already there. It can feel hard to believe that sometimes, especially in situations that are chronic and ongoing.

We need to remember to breathe, to pray those prayers we know and spontaneously from the depths of our hearts. The hardest part then is to let go and continue to trust. As we surrender, we are not giving up, we are waiting on the Lord to lead us. If all is going well, let us continue to do the same by offering prayers of thanksgiving for what he has given us and pray for those who are in need of help today, especially those in war torn regions of the world such as the most recent outbreak in Gaza.

Let us place our hope and trust in Jesus today. I pray that you may feel and experience his peace, that peace that surpasses all understanding and share that peace with those close and far.

Photo: Even when the clouds cover the sky, the sun is still there, and no matter the darkest trial, Jesus is right by our side. 

Link for the Mass readings for Wednesday, October 18, 2023