Dear Friends,
Those of you who have been joining us for the Fireside Chats where we have watched and discussed Season Three of The Chosen, know that one of this season’s themes has been the reality of loss and failure in the lives of the disciples, of those close to Jesus. Here they are walking with Jesus and having a close friendship with him, so how is it possible that he does not “fix” all of the human frailties and frustrations they have? He heals strangers who ask for help and yet does not jump in to do it readily for those closest to him. I admire The Chosen’s writers and director’s willingness to take on an emotional and intellectual challenge that has been a part of every disciple’s journey with Jesus for the past two thousand years.
In one of the early episodes this season, as Jesus is sending out the disciples two by two to preach and heal, the disciple, James, asks Jesus why he has not healed him of the illness that makes it difficult for him to walk. The scene brought me to tears because of the powerful message that Jesus, in The Chosen, offers to James, there is something more important than physical wholeness. Jesus’ mission is not about earthly pleasure and success. Jesus is offering to each of us a relationship with God and a chance to share in the reign of God – forever. Today’s gospel expresses a similar message. How could Jesus allow Lazarus to die? Didn’t he love him? Then, to let us know that he is God over all, Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead. He was simply moved with compassion for Martha and Mary.
I hope you will be invited by both The Chosen series and today’s gospel into a deep conversation with Jesus. Maybe you could take a little extra time this last week of Lent to have a conversation with Jesus about how he sees you, how you and Jesus are doing together. However, even prayer itself may not always be easy for those who have chosen to follow Jesus. Those deep moments of prayer can make us uncomfortable because they often confront us with the awkward way we live out our days. They may also remind us of our mortality. Our relationship with God is never as smooth as we would like. Perhaps, for all of us who follow Jesus, there should be warning signs just like there are for road construction – it is not going to be fast or smooth but filled with challenge.
One of the things you may also encounter during those deep moments of prayer is a feeling of loneliness. People will often mention this in spiritual direction. However, the feeling of loneliness should not be looked at as a bad thing nor does it mean that anything is wrong. Rather this is simply a gift from God reminding us that our heart will never ultimately be satisfied by anything or anyone in this life other than God. It is a call to remain faithful to the process of going deeper. God helps us through moments of loneliness to enjoy the people and events he puts in our life, reminding us these are not the end nor should they become idols we worship. The loneliness teaches us that there is no equal to a loving, living God. It should be a reminder to keep our hearts open and aware – that we should avoid medicating our hearts with activities, distractions and work. Sometimes, these uncomfortable moments in prayer are actually signs that the relationship with God is going quite well. The important thing is to continue to trust the God who loves you, leaning into the truth that God has a plan for you and knows what is best for you, come what may.
Blessings be on you as you enter the final preparation for Holy Week.
Peace,
Fr. Damian