Building Bridges

The Evangelical Power of Joy

In our readings this weekend we hear Paul say, “For however many are the promises of God, their Yes is in him.”

God’s definitive Yes! comes to us in Jesus Christ.

This beautiful reality struck me deeply a week and half ago as I joined seven priest friends from my class of 2010 for a week reunion in Biloxi, MS.  As we prayed together in a local church, I marveled at God’s goodness in bringing this moment about.  What had caused it?

Was it the strong desire of these men to defend religious liberty for Catholics and people of all faith?  Maybe.

Was it the opportunity to help strengthen family life in society, especially that unique vocation to married love?  Possibly.

Was it the support of a community of faith, the love of a family, and the encouragement of priests and church leaders?  Very likely.

But most of all, what became clear in that moment was that in each of their lives, an overwhelming encounter with Jesus had spoken a definitive Yes!  to them.  And it filled them with joy.  After that, whatever devotions or spiritual practices, apostolates or service groups, social or political activities they participated in were fueled by that Yes! to friendship with Jesus.

In the work of evangelization, there is no greater force than the joy that comes from knowing Jesus personally.  Theologian Fr. Robert Barron points out that St. Thomas Aquinas begins his treatise on the moral life not with law, but with beatitude, that is, happiness or joy.  We change the culture by the infectious witness of joy in Christ.

As we approach the Lenten season, through so many wonderful spiritual opportunities in our parishes, including a parish mission, may Jesus’ Yes! fill you with that attractive joy of a friend of Jesus.

~Fr. Scott