May 22, 2025 // Thursday of the Fifth Week of Easter // Optional Memorial of Saint Rita of Cascia, Religious
Read the Word // Open your Bible to today’s Gospel: John 15:9-11
Reflect on the Word //
“I think we should go to confession today,” my husband said one Saturday morning. I bristled at the thought. Keeping a two-year-old quiet while trying to reflect on all of my wrongdoings didn’t sound like a relaxing way to spend a Saturday afternoon. The indignation in the face of the life-saving power of Confession, however, was my sign that I was, in fact, overdue for the Sacrament.
With a sigh, I scampered over to the cupboard to grab snacks and distractions that would help diminish the desire for a very loud toddler to be, well . . . loud.
And then, despite my loud toddler waiting outside, it happened the way it always does—“I absolve you of your sins,” the priest spoke over me. In that moment, all of the stress and the frustration retreated. In that moment, I was free.
Sometimes I think we complicate the simple instructions God has set before us. “If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love,” He tells us in today’s Gospel (John 15:10).
It is a straightforward directive, yet we often muddle it with distractions and excuses. We find ways to avoid the grace we know we need and look to the world to find the life-giving joy that can only come from being in relationship with Him. It is a cycle that often leaves us empty and further from the genuine fulfillment that can be found in Christ.
I don’t know what sort of distractions are keeping you from remaining in His love, dear sister. I don’t know what hardships you’re facing or questions you have, but He is waiting to make your joy complete (see John 15:11).
Relate to the Lord // When was the last time you received the Sacrament of Confession? Make a plan to go this week.
Brittany Calavitta is an enthusiastic advocate for a good book, strong coffee, and a hopeful heart. After battling years of infertility, she and her husband welcomed their first child on September 11, 2016. While balancing time between life with a preschooler and a husband who travels for ministry, Brittany dances professionally all over Southern California where her family currently resides. She was a contributing author to Here Too: Where We Find God and Made New: 52 Devotions for Catholic Women. Find out more about her here.
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