SOLEMNITY OF ST. JOSEPH
Irene Powell
Mount Family Association Coordinator

A Joyful Dance?

“You changed my mourning into dancing.” Psalm 30: 11

Today we must reflect on the puzzling age old paradox of the existence of sadness in our lives. In today’s Old Testament reading the Lord is creating new heavens and a new earth: “… no longer shall the sound of weeping be heard there, or the sound of crying.” Well, where is this new place? Because in today’s psalm we know the reality of our lives, “At nightfall, weeping enters in…”

Why do we suffer emotional pain? At times devastating with crippling affects. Surely God does not want us to suffer.

When children have been confronted with violent horror or natural disasters and are afraid, Mr. Rogers (the children’s television host of years ago) advised parents and teachers to help children focus on the helpers that arise in every situation. Look for the good, the selfless acts of kindness and support, and search for the love that is expressed and generated. Good advice. Humankind rises to extraordinary heights during the darkest times. People all around reflect the love of God during such times.

God’s grace, God’s love, will help us defeat despair. Only trust in the Lord can turn our “mourning into dancing,” propel us to turn our own sadness into acts of kindness – into motion. Not every sickness will be healed by faith, as in today’s Gospel’s reading, but the realization that Love is eternal brings unlimited grace and peace to troubled souls.

Good and bountiful Lord, help me feel your presence. I know you are with me always, yet my heart cannot always feel you. Lift the veil of sadness so that I may more easily see your light. Lift the heavy burdens of darkness and doubt so my feet may step ever more joyfully, dancing to Your tune. Help me create your new kingdom on earth. Amen.

Is 65: 17-21, Ps 30: 2 , 4-6, 11-12a,13b, Jn 4: 43-54