May 22, 2019 Wednesday of the 5th Week of Easter-C

Acts of the Apostles 15:1-6

Psalm 122

John 15:1-8

“Remain in me, as I remain in you.”  John 15:4

Lord, whether the translation reads: “remain, abide, settle, or dwell” it’s clear you want to be close to us, permanently.  You don’t come and go or just pass through our lives.  You are with us in good times and bad.  You remain with us even when we sin.  But I know you want to be invited and welcomed as the center of our lives.  Today I learned of the death of someone close to me.  You are here to share my grief and sorrow at the loss of my friend.  As I look around searching for something I can do to help the family heal the wounds of loss I know you will show me what to do and say.  Without you I can do nothing.  Help me to bear fruit that will console and encourage those who are hurting right now.  I want to remain and abide in you too.  Never let me separate myself from you or become discouraged when life deals suffering and pain.  Remind me how much you care about the small and large challenges of living with grief.   May I always remain on the vine to be fed by you.  Amen.