John: Friendship
“Do you allow people to really get to know you?”
Today’s Guest Blogger is: Fr Michael Amadeo, Pastor of OLIH, VIcar General of the Diocese of Des Moines
My younger brother Martin died on a Monday morning ten years ago. I remember the feelings of anguish and helplessness as I held his limp and cold body in my arms. Within hours after contacting my siblings and extended family members, co-workers and friends were present at the house. They offered condolences, but what I recall is not their words but their presence. In the simple act of showing up, my family experienced strength and comfort on a painful day.
A former spiritual director of mine often said, “The most important part of prayer is showing up.” Over the years there were seasons in my prayer life where ´showing up´ was difficult because of busyness or a resistance hearing the voice of God. I have learned that showing up to prayer is more important than what I do in my time of prayer.
John the Apostle, the one whom Jesus loved, was present throughout all of Jesus’ public ministry. John was present at the raising of the daughter of Jairus, the Transfiguration, the agony in the garden, the Last Supper, and was the only apostle who stood with the women at the foot of the cross as Jesus endured crucifixion. In each setting John the Apostle grew in his friendship with Jesus because he first and foremost ´showed up´.
Being ´present´ is the foundation to any deep friendship. I am grateful for those who were alongside me and my siblings when our brother died. Their presence upheld us on a very despairing day. Who has consistently ´showed up´ in your life? Offer a prayer of gratitude for those friends.
Make a decision each day to be with Jesus, for He is our strength, comfort, and joy. Be present to His friendship even if you do not know what to say or are resistant to listening to His voice. ´Show up´ and Jesus will do the rest.