Twenty Eighth Day of Lent - Joy

Virgin and Child with St Anna
Albrecht Dürer Metropolitan Art Gallery,
New York

 "Ok, I'll spell it out again.  I'm warning you that soon I will leave you, and it will be awful.  You will be devastated (though others may be pleased).  However, I will return in joy…"

"…It's going to be like when a mother gives birth.  She knows the process will be extremely painful, but it will be worthwhile, because the baby comes with joy…

"…When I come back from the creator, you will have all you need, and the joy will take this present suffering away…"

"…Then you will ask in my name; but there will be no need, because you will ask the creator directly.  It will be the same thing.  I am simply going back to my origin with the creator…"

"We are slowly getting it", reassured Jesus’ friends. "You and the creator are one."

"Yes, you are believing me. Look, soon you are all going to be dispersed, and you will leave me alone.  But I won't be alone, because I am one with the creator."

"I'm telling you this to prepare you, so that it won't come as a shock, and trouble you. Be encouraged.  All things are to be set right.” John

Joy is present in the most unexpected places. Anna has been waiting with the assurance that she will see the coming of the messiah before she dies. Babies should bring joy, but this encounter is also full of meaning and awareness. Jesus goes on to speak of joy, mixed with terror. "I am leaving you, be prepared. Trust me, it's going to be alright."

PRAYER: What ever happens, I hold onto the joy I find in my heart.