Spirituality

His presence softens the sorrows, stirs up happiness, and gives strength to confront a life full of surprises and tests.

by Fr. Fernando Pascual, LC | Source: Catholic.net

Maybe we have read this too many times: Jesus does not want slaves. His desire consists of us being and living as friends. (cf. Jn15,14-15).

   Life, on the other hand, holds us back with thousands of problems, a thousand worries, a thousand fears, and a thousand pleasures that come and go. We are more worried about work or about painting the ceiling than about the things that are happening to our friend Jesus, on the other hand, maintains His hand out stretched,His Heart open, and His eyes full of love. We know that He awaits us, with a humble and warm presence, in the Eucharist. We know He yearns to forgive us in the encounter of mercy that happens in each good confession.

   If we leave a little space for His love as a Friend, if we open the door of our soul for Him, even if it is a mere crack, He would enter with pleasure. That way we may dine together.  (cf. Rev 3,20).

   And then when we discover that his presence softens the sorrows, stirs up happiness, and gives strength to confront a life full of surprises and tests. Having Christ near changes the human existence completely. The world acquires a different color. The one who is a true friend of the Eternal Friend soon understands quickly that we were born for Him, and that our heart, like that of Saint Agustin and of many saints past and present, can only be calm and serene when we find Him.

   One of the friends of Jesus, Robert Benson, wrote many years ago, a few poetic lines that reflect what it means to have an encounter with the Lord, in the cheerful intimacy of true love. The poem is titled This is how my friend is.

 

I will tell you how I met Him:

I had heard a lot about Him, but never paid attention.

He always showered me with attention and gifts, but never thanked Him.

He seems to desire my friendship, and I showed indifference.

I felt helpless, unhappy, hungry and in danger, and He offered me refuge, comfort, support and serenity; but I continued to be ungrateful.

At last, he crossed my path, with tears in his eyes, and implored me:

Come and dwell with me.

I will tell you how He treats me now: He satisfies my desires.

He grants me more than I dare to ask for.

He anticipates my needs.

He begs me to ask for more.

Never reproaches me for my past craziness.

I will tell you know what I think of Him:

He is as nice as he is great.

His love is as passionate as true.

He is as prodigal in His promises and faithful to keep them.

So jealous of my love as He deserves it.

I am indebted with Him and He invites me to call him friend.

(RobertBenson, "La amistad de Cristo").

 

Questions or comments

to the Author Fr. Fernando Pascual, LC: fpa@arcol.org.