Following the Way with Blessed John Paul II

"When 'His hour' had come, Jesus said to those who were with Him in the Garden of Gethsemane, to Peter, James and John, His closest disciples: 'Rise, let us be on our way' (see Mark 14:42). Not only He must 'be on His way' to fulfill His Father's will: they, too, must go with Him."

"Rise, let us be on our way."

"Even if these words indicate a time of trial, great effort and a painful cross, we must not allow ourselves to give way to fear. They are also words of peace and joy, the fruit of faith. On another occasion, to the same disciples, Jesus said: 'Rise, and do not be afraid!' (Matthew 17:7). God's love does not impose burdens upon us that we cannot carry, nor make demands of us that we cannot fulfill. For whatever He asks of us, He provides the help that is needed."

- From the book Rise, Let Us Be on Our Way by Blessed John Paul II. The writings are focused toward the late pope's fellow bishops but apply to apply to all Christ's followers. In this Year of Faith, let's us go with greater urgency on our journey of faith with Jesus.

"Rise, and do not be afraid!"

Inspired by this Year of Faith we will be posting columns like this about exporing and/or deepening our faith. Watch for it on Thursdays.