Returned to Jesus

Yesterday I had the good fortune to return to my childhood parish, as a deacon, after 57years. As I drove through the small town, towards the church, fond memories of my childhood came flooding back to me. The narrow streets and the houses had not changed much, and I remembered walking there to and from school. A little shop stood on the same corner, except now it looked much smaller than I remembered it.

Walking into the church, I was filled with joy. The altar and the large crucifix hanging over it were just as I remembered them. The statue of St Martin dePorres to the side, looked back at me as if I was the same small boy. I had, however, grown older, more experienced, but most of all, I was now a deacon here to celebrate a Word and Communion Service.

I reflected on the first line of this week’s Gospel Mark 6:30-34 ‘The apostles returned to Jesus and told him all that they had done and taught.’ Like me, they had journeyed far and returned to a place of familiarity, eager to share their experiences and the lessons they had learned. Standing at the pulpit, I felt a profound connection to those apostles and to the spiritual path that had led me back to this cherished place.

Each of us journeys out into the world, to varying distances from the shore, and then returns back to find Jesus on the shore. Our experiences and the wisdom we gain along the way are the gifts we bring back, contributing to the ever-growing tapestry of faith and community.

In that moment, I realized that my journey, like that of the apostles, was not just a physical return but a spiritual homecoming, a chance to reconnect with my roots and to share the fruits of my life's work with those who had nurtured my earliest steps in faith.

I invite you, my cherished readers, to take a moment to reflect on your own paths. Where have you ventured? What lessons have you learned along the way? How has your faith been tested and strengthened? Just as the apostles shared their experiences with Jesus, I encourage you to bring your own stories and reflections back to Him.

In doing so, you not only honor your own spiritual growth but also contribute to the richness of our shared community. Remember, every step you take, whether forward or back, is part of your unique journey with Christ. Take comfort in knowing that no matter how far you wander, you are always welcome to return to His loving embrace.

Let us remember that Jesus' love for us is unwavering and unconditional. No matter where our journeys take us, He is always calling us back to Him, inviting us to a homecoming filled with grace, forgiveness, and boundless love. His arms are open wide, ready to welcome us back, no matter how far we've strayed or how long we've been away.

Let us embrace this truth and find peace in the knowledge that we and our loved ones are never truly lost, for Jesus is our constant guide, our ever-present source of strength, and our eternal home. As we journey, may we carry this message in our hearts and live in the light of His everlasting love.

NOTICE BOARD

Friends, I encourage you to join one of my two membership program through the following links. The Benedictine Spirituality Program LINK - a community trying the live the Banedictine Spirituality at Home and at Work. The Life Transitions Program LINK - a community navigating the various Life Transitions we encounter on our journey.