Tuesday, June 3, 2025

 Memorial of Charles Lwanga and Companions

 (Acts 20:17-27; John 17:1-11a)

The old priest was found dead on the floor without life signs.  Some would say that he had the best death possible – without suffering or invasive hospital procedures.  But this point is debatable. Today's readings show other ways to die.

 Paul feels his end is near as he travels to Jerusalem.  On the journey he stops at the port of Miletus and sends for the church workers in Ephesus to meet him.  With old friends around him he shares his affection and concerns.  In the gospel Jesus has been instructing his disciples throughout the long final discourse.  In today’s passage he prays to his Father for them.

No one can enjoy suffering.  But we should not always run from it.  Through suffering we can draw closer to Jesus on the cross.  It even allows us to share in his work of redemption.  Suffering in the dying process may also afford us opportunity to confirm our love for those who mean the most to us.  Like both Paul and Jesus, we may want to embrace it for the sake of others.