Take Courage

Gospel Reflection for June 2, 2025

“His disciples said, ‘Now you are talking plainly, and not in any figure of speech. Now we realize that you know everything and that you do not need to have anyone question you. Because of this we believe that you came from God.’ Jesus answered them, ‘Do you believe now? Behold, the hour is coming and has arrived when each of you will be scattered to his own home and you will leave me alone. But I am not alone, because the Father is with me. I have told you this so that you might have peace in me. In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.’” (Jn. 16:29-33 NABRE)

Sometimes we may feel confused about the circumstances of our lives and we may wonder why God is working in our lives in the way He is. Like the disciples in today’s Gospel, we may not understand the Lord’s ways or where He is calling us, so we tend to question and feel uncertain amidst our difficulties or troubles.

The disciples, however, came to the realization that they did not need to question Jesus, even when they did not completely understand. They realized that He knows everything and is completely in control of everything. They knew that they could trust their Lord, even throughout times of uncertainty, and they professed this faith and trust in Him.

When we experience troubles in our lives, as Jesus said we would, we must respond as the disciples did, with faith! Jesus has conquered the world and every situation that comes our way. He is with us in every moment and we must look to Him, trusting Him to lead and guide us every step of the way. We must look to Jesus for His peace so that we might have peace in Him, regardless of the various storms that trouble our lives.

May we always keep our eyes on the Lord and keep our faith in Him throughout everything we face, no matter how difficult. Jesus calls us to take courage, so may we be encouraged!

“I command you: be strong and steadfast! Do not fear nor be dismayed, for the Lord, your God, is with you wherever you go.” (Jsh. 1:9)