Returning to Galilee

At this years Easter Vigil mass, Pope Francis spoke about how the apostles first met Jesus along the shores of Galilee and how after His resurrection they returned to Galilee and met the risen Christ once again.  Pope Francis pointed out that we all have have a Galilee---that moment where we first met Jesus.  He went on to further state that we must also return ther to, "encounter [Jesus] and let [yourself] be embraced by [his] mercy.  We must return, "to see Jesus risen, and to become a witness of his resurrection.  This is not to go back in time; it is not a type of nostalgia. It is returning to our first love, in order to receive the fire which Jesus has kindled in the world and to bring that fire to all people, to the ends of the Earth.
 

My "Galilee" is the Univeristy of Notre Dame.   Last year I went there for what I thought would be a simple retreat, but I had my world turned upside down.  It was the first time I believe that I truley met Jesus.  Oh, I've had conversions and reversions.  I've had those moments where I've felt the presence of God.  But this was the first time that I TRULY met Jesus and he did quite the piece of work on me.  He cracked open my chest and exposed me to His love and showed me that He loves me not because of who I am but He loves me despite who I am.  He showed me how to love.

This week, I am back at Notre Dame for another week at ND Vision.  I don't have any great expectations.  I'm not expecting any mind blowing, mountain top, transfiguring experiences.  I am just hoping to return to Galilee.  I want to sit on the beach while Jesus barbecues me some fish and enjoy His friendship and love.  I just want to rest in prayer and spend some time with Him.  Oh, I plan on having fun too.  I plan on meeting new people and making new friends.  But, I can't wait to return to Galilee.

So, please remember me in your prayers this week if you could and I'll remember you in mine.