Get In the Wheelbarrow

Readings for Tuesday April 12, 2011

First Reading: Number 21:4-9
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 102
Gospel: John 8:21-30


"I belong to what is above. You belong to this world, but I do not belong to this world. That is why I told you that you will die in your sins. For if you do not believe that I AM, you will die in your sins." (John 23-24)

After completing a highly dangerous tightrope walk over Niagara Falls in appalling wind and rain, 'The Great Zumbrati' was met by an enthusiastic supporter, who urged him to make a return trip, this time pushing a wheelbarrow, which the spectator had thoughtfully brought along. The Great Zumbrati was reluctant, given the terrible conditions, but the supporter pressed him, "You can do it - I know you can," he urged. You really believe I can do it?" asked Zumbrati. "Yes, definitely - you can do it," the supporter gushed. "Okay," said Zumbrati, "Get in the wheelbarrow."

"Get in the wheelbarrow." How many of us believe in someone or something so much that we would be willing to risk our lives? Isn't this what Christ is asking of us each and every day? Is He not saying to us each moment to trust Him and to "get in the wheelbarrow?" We all have many difficult choices to make every day, and many of them are not always the most clear and simple choices to make; but one choice should never be an issue for us and that is believing in Christ and what He wants to do in each of our lives. I pray that each of us is given the trust and belief to "get in the wheelbarrow" with Christ leading the way.

Ask yourself this day, what is preventing you from "getting in the wheelbarrow?"

Father above, we thank you for the gift of this day. Lord, we thank you for the many blessings in our lives and for all that you continue to do. Lord, never let us become blind to all that you do in our lives, and let us always give you the glory and honor. Lord, let us trust and believe in you with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Help us to follow you no matter what the world puts in our way. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.