Monday, May 17
Spencer Grant
"I have told you this so that you might have peace in me. In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world." - John 16:33
It may sound cliché now, but what an awesome God we have! This world we live in is full of pain, suffering, and hardships, but Jesus—in his death and resurrection—has conquered this world; and we, being born again in his Spirit, are partakers of this great victory! This world conquering that Jesus refers to in today's gospel, is not what the ancient Jews had in mind for the Messiah. They thought he was literally going to conquer all nations of earth and reestablish the throne and kingdom of David and all of Israel's problems would be no more. This is not the conquest Jesus had in store. "In the world you will have trouble," he tells us, "but take courage, I have conquered the world." Through our baptism, we have an inheritance with Christ in his kingdom and have encountered God in a deeper way than even that of Moses and the Patriarchs; therefore, live and face the troubles of this world with courage! For our God is mightier and will bring prosperity to those who love him!
What troubles do I have that I can better conquer with Jesus?
Jesus, O Mighty Conqueror, be with me and strengthen me with your peace and courage as I face the battles of this world.
Reflection by:
Spencer Grant
Did you know...
Spencer Grant is currently in his first year of seminary at St. John Vianney College Seminary as a junior. Born and raised in Tampa, his family joined the Catholic Church when he was eleven years old and have been parishioners at St. Timothy in Lutz since then. He enjoys his time on the golf course and is an avid Bucs, Lightning and Rays fan.
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