Pope Francis stated that Jesus has the ability to turn every difficulty or fall into a step forward. Through the love of Christ, things that seem wearisome or unsuccessful can appear in a different light, he said on April 23.
Before reciting the midday “Regina Coeli” prayer in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis discussed the day’s Gospel reading, Luke 24:13-35, which describes the Risen Jesus’ encounter with the disciples heading to Emmaus. Jesus appears beside the two disciples and prompts them to tell him what has happened and made them sad. While they are walking, Jesus “helps them reinterpret the facts in a different way, in the light of the prophecies, of the Word of God,” the pope said.
Pope Francis invited people to tell Jesus everything, sincerely, without fear of disturbing him. He listens, without fear of saying the wrong thing or shame at our struggle to understand. “The Lord is happy whenever we open ourselves to him,” he said. “Only in this way can he take us by the hand, accompany us and make our hearts burn again.”
He suggested taking some time every evening to examine your conscience and to reread the day with Jesus, opening your heart to him, bringing to him people, choices, fears, falls, and hopes. Doing so will help you learn gradually to look at things with different eyes, with his eyes and not just your own.
“We can thus relive the experience of those two disciples,” he said. “A difficult cross to embrace, the decision to forgive an offense, a missed opportunity for redress, the toil of work, the sincerity that comes at a price and the trials of family life can appear to us in a new light, the light of the crucified and Risen One, who knows how to turn every fall into a step forward.”
About the National Day of Prayer
Each year, Americans set aside a day devoted to offering prayers for the nation, its people, and its leaders. This year, the National Day of Prayer is Thursday, May 4.
For more than 21 years, The Presidential Prayer Team has actively participated, encouraging all Americans to stop and intercede for America before Almighty God. As part of its preparations, the prayer team has already opened its national prayer line where members and friends can record their own pleas and prayers. Official sign-up for the National Day of Prayer 24-hour live prayer room is also open now.
The Presidential Prayer Team president, Jim Bolthouse, said, “The United States is struggling. The nation is dealing with inflation, energy needs, and rising crime in many cities, as well as dealing with international efforts to weaken America. Whatever distresses you is of interest to God, and we invite you to draw near to Him. When you post your prayer in the live prayer room, you will encourage others to pray as well.”
Access is readily available on the website, www.presidentialprayerteam.org or at www.Pray.Team.