In Between

06-02-2019Weekly Reflection

In between: we all find ourselves there from time to time—sometimes uncomfortably. Like in between money coming in and money going out, earning income and paying bills. In between customer and manager, diner and chef: any honest server trying to serve both. In between theory and practice, ideal and reality: everyone from parents to pastors. Ask the kids—or parishioners! This Sunday, in between Ascension and Pentecost, reminds us we're in between Jesus' departure and glorious return—sometimes uncomfortably.

Though Jesus promises in Revelation, "I am coming soon," Acts shows Stephen tragically called home first. But Pope Francis urges us not to become "sourpusses," as if living Gospel love is impossible in between. Today's Gospel shows Jesus praying for those about to betray, deny, and desert him, but also praying "for those who will believe in me through their word." Us! "So that they"— we—"may all be one."