This world is filled with so much pain, suffering, and sadness that it is sometimes hard to find joy. I haven’t been filled with joy this week as I spent almost every day of it in the hospital. Despite all the suffering in the world, we need to realize that Jesus is the ultimate source of joy. He gives us a plan to be happy, we just have to follow it.
When the baby John the Baptist encountered the presence of Jesus for the first time, he leapt for joy in his mother’s womb. Just think, everywhere that the pregnant Mary went, she was bringing joy into people’s lives. I know I feel great after going to adoration of the blessed sacrament at church for half an hour. I can’t imagine how it felt for Mary to carry Jesus within herself for nine months.
Not only can we find Jesus in the Eucharist, but we find Him in others as well. I could see Jesus in many doctors and nurses who helped me this week. A kind gesture here and a joke there can turn a bad day into a better one. I could see Jesus in the many nice comments and prayers offered from others. I am filled with joy when I encounter Christlike people in my life.
Let’s also carry Jesus within ourselves, so that when others encounter us, they may also feel His presence. We are all called to take Jesus out into the world and show the world His love. The world needs a lot of Christlike people to cut through the valley of tears.
Despite the darkest day, if we keep our eyes fixed on the one true light, we will make it through the darkness of this world to Jesus in Heaven. There won’t be anymore pain or suffering. There won’t be sadness or heartache. There will only be joy. The blind will see, the deaf will hear, and everyone will leap for joy.
