Giving it back to God

Gospel: Jn 5:17-30
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/031324.cfm

We cannot do anything without God. We think our existence is our own, but our existence is a gift. We did not have a choice in it. Our existence is a possession of God. To think that it is anything else separates us for that which we came.

In today’s gospel, Jesus explains how his and Father’s will are one. This “will” goes beyond the limits of this reality. It has control over death. It is not otherworldly; it is active here and now. It is something that we too can participate in as Jesus did. It is a challenge for us given our ego and our need for control. Jesus found a way to keep that connection open so we too can do the same.

What parts of your life do you hold onto? What makes your life uniquely yours? Imagine everything you are and everything you have. Think about all of your relationships, your gifts, your talents, your possessions, the things you enjoy, the things you are proud of, your health, and your life. Imagine all of it in front of you. None of that would be possible without God. Imagine all your struggles and challenges and put them all in front of you too. Put everything that makes you you and put it in front of you. Now take all of that. Stay with it for a while and reflect on it. Now imagine putting all of it in front of God. Thank God for all of it. Now give it to God and pray: 

All of this is yours. I give it all back to you. Help me be a good steward of these gifts. May I use these gifts according to your will. Help me use these gifts to grow in love for you and others. Amen.