Tuesday of the Seventh Week of Easter May 25, 2004 Scripture: Acts: 20:17-27; John 17:1-11A Reflection: Paul departed from Ephesus and traveled to Jerusalem with faith and courage, despite the trials and imprisonment that were awaiting him. There was no hesitation, no doubt, no grasping at straws for an excuse to remain comfortable. No! Off he went to continue the ministry to which he had been called. We can always find reasons to dally along our thorny path but like Paul, let us skip along with faith and courage. Because of his faith and proclamation of the word, Paul was imprisoned. Prison or a restricted environment deprives one of the priceless gift of freedom. We are not in prison, yet many of us are not free. What interferes with our freedom? Do we recognize our personal inhibitors to “freedom of spirit”…anger, anxiety, animosity, antipathy…that prevent us from responding with faith and courage to the needs of others? Lord, grant unto us the courage we need to continue our faith filled ministry to each other. Let us be mindful that more often than we think, ministry is more presence than action. Suggested Action: By your kindness, presence, and prayer make an attempt today to change a stumbling block into a stepping-stone for someone in search or in need of freedom. Sr. Kathleen O’Dea, IHM Scranton, Pennsylvania

Graphic: Sr. Donna Korba, IHM