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May 13 - a little while

Fr. Michael MachacekNativity of Our LordMay 13, 2021
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today's readings are  Acts 18: 1-8; Psalm 98; and John 16: 16-20

I must admit that I find today's gospel one of the most annoying and puzzling gospel passages to proclaim.  In the space of 5 verses, 7 times we hear "in a little while ..."   The very impatient side of me screams, "Enough!"

When I stand back and ask why so we hear this so many times, I realize that there must be a "method in St. John's madness".  I have to ponder why is this term so important that he would include it 7 times.  

First thing that comes to my mind is how many times yet I heard that phrase as a child.  When are going to get there?  "In a little while"   When will supper be ready?  "In a little while". Now, as an adult I can ask, when will all my loved ones get vaccinated?  In a little while ...

What did I learn? That some things will happen, some things will unfold, only in their due time.  And as much as I want it to happen now, no, that isn't going to be the case.  So I have to exercise patience.  I am not in control.  It will happen, yes, but maybe not when I want it. 

How often do things unfold in the Bible "in a little while".  How many times would a young Jewish boy or girl ask their parents, ask their rabbi, "When will the Messiah come?"  In a little while ...  

Most of all, in a little while reminds me that I or you are not in complete control.  But God is.  And God's time is far different than my time or your time.  For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so are my ways above your ways, my thoughts above your thoughts.  (Isaiah 55)   And God is in charge of the "in a little while".  And I am not.  So I need to learn to wait, and to be patient.  

P.S.   For an interesting overview of today's optional feast of Our Lady of Fatima, go to  FaithND - Our Lady of Fatima