Saint Isidore
Whoever receives the one I send receives me. (John 13:20)
Have you ever had a day like this? You wake up determined to make a difference in the world by living for Christ. You spring out of bed, eager to be a messenger of his love. By evening, though, you are left wondering what has happened. The spring in your step is gone. You tried hard to live as an ambassador for Christ. You really wanted people to know that Jesus is the source of your joy. Yet looking back, you sense that something was missing. It was as if all your efforts were inadequate—not sufficiently persuasive, faithful, or even loving.
Days like this are bound to come, but when they do, try to look at them as gifts from God. It’s on these days that he can remind you that on their own, your human efforts are inadequate. Peter and the other apostles had to let Jesus wash their feet, and so do you (John 13:3-12). It’s only by allowing Jesus to minister to you that you will find the grace you need to minister to other people.
Picture yourself at the bottom of a long staircase, with Jesus standing at the top. The sight of his glory and the love coming from his heart captivate you and make you want to be with him. But every time you try to go up a couple of steps, you slip back. Finally, frustrated and sore, you ask him to help you. In an instant, Jesus descends to the lowest step, picks you up, and carries you up to the top.
Today doesn’t have to become “one of those days”! Instead, start out by entering God’s presence through prayer and peaceful openness. Let him wash your feet. Accept the freeing truth that you will never become a messenger of God’s love on your own. God never intended you to. You are someone he has “sent” in his name (John 13:20). You are a vessel of his presence, his light, and his grace. So let his presence and his promise fill you so that you can radiate his joy to everyone you meet!
“Jesus, you love me enough to send me out as your ambassador. Give me a heart of gentle humility, that I may serve as you served.”
Acts 13:13-25; Psalm 89:2-3, 21-22, 25, 27
Daily Marriage Tip for May 15, 2014:
The Church remembers St. Isidore today, a farmer. Growing food together can be a meaningful activity for a family – shared labor, shared rewards. Start small, with a potted herb or a few plants in the backyard.