Reflection for the Fifth Sunday of Easter

Written on: May 15, 2019

” I make all things new”

Readings:

Acts 14: 21-27
Psalm 145: 8-9, 10-11, 12-13
Book of Revelations 21: 1-5a
Gospel of John 13: 31-33a, 34-35

Easter and springtime with the earth bursting into new life speaks of resurrection.

Luke reminds us that the newness doesn’t always come without many trials. Witness nature struggling to return to fullness- bulbs sending shoots through hardened or frozen ground, the butterfly breaking from its transforming cocoon, the baby chick pecking its way out of the shell, the woman in labor.

Jesus’ life was one of bringing about newness through:

• healing the wounded of body and spirit,
• welcoming the rejected,
• uplifting the sorrowing,
• sharing life with the outsider.

It was a life not without trial.

Jesus showed us how to live with love for one another and now leaves it to us to take up the mission. How awesome is it that we are entrusted with continuing to look after one another and all of creation?

We have so many ways to imitate that life of Jesus- to invite and include, to uplift and replenish.

Our world needs healing.  All around us are the wounded, the outcast, the broken.  We struggle together with our relationship to the universe, and to one another.

Each of us is uniquely gifted.  May we not fear to freely give of that unique gift we have been so freely given.

Love makes all things new!

Sister Dolores O’Dowd lives and ministers in Albion, New York. Sr. Dolores was one of the first Chaplains for women at Albion Prison. After her retirement, she began volunteering and is now a spiritual caregiver with Hospice of Orleans County. “I have always enjoyed working with people- seeing their growth and supporting them through difficult times. Both positions have provided ample opportunities for that.”

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