Page 151 - spiritual_accompaniment_montreal_archdiocese

HOMILIES

When we are touched in a passing way, it is probably a human word that has touched us. But
when we are touched in a way that transforms our lives, when we are cut to the heart, then it
is the word of God that has touched and enriched us.

In every moment when we speak with each other, even when physical distancing makes it
difficult to meet another, to meet in society, in the Church, in the parish, in the community,
in one’s mission, the Good Shepherd is always present to care for each and every one of us.

In prayer, let us surrender ourselves to the Good Shepherd. In prayer, let us seek the Good
Shepherd. In fact, God could have chosen to do everything without us, but in his infinite
mystery, he chose to work through us.

Even though we feel limited in our actions, God is always with us and remains by our side.
God desires more than ever to accompany us through the trial that this pandemic is for every-
one of us. The Good Pastor wants to comfort us and support us in our personal life and in our
family life.
When the de-confinement begins, when the economy, social life, and church life resume, let
us not stop entrusting ourselves to the Good Shepherd to guide us with wisdom, generosity,
and mutual care.

In the Gospel, Jesus himself invites us to pray without ceasing, telling us: “Ask and you shall
receive.” The Lord never leaves our prayer unanswered when we pray to him.

Perhaps the best way to explain this and give an example is how parents respond to children.
When children ask their parents for something, the parents always answer. But are the
parents going to give the child everything he or she asks for? No! However, they will likely give
something to their child.

When we ask God, sometimes we think that He has not answered us because he has not given
us exactly what we asked for. But he did give us something. He gave us his presence. He gave
us his peace, his grace. He always gives. He always answers our prayer.

Just as parents do not always answer their children in the way they want, God does not always
answer our prayers in the way we would like. He answers in the way it is best. Just as
parents who give the child what is needed, God always gives us what we need. The purpose of
the prayer of petition is, in fact, not to inform God about what we need.

(cont’d)

Collection of texts by the Most Rev. Christian Lépine 151