Today Jesus tells us, “Keep my commandments, … that your joy may be complete” (Jn 15:10-11). Jesus’ entire concern is our joy! THIS is the reason for his taking on human nature, devoting his life to teaching and healing, and ultimately laying down his life. He had nothing to gain—except to make our joy “complete.” Pope Francis begins his Joy of the Gospel by proclaiming, “The Joy of the Gospel fills the hearts and lives of all who encounter Jesus” (#1). Surely this is one of the “essential” truths on which Pope Francis urges us to “concentrate” for fear we could lose our way among a “multitude of doctrines” (#35). Pope Francis may have a point. I myself, having attended weekly mass and religious education through high school, never entertained the thought that my Catholic faith might have something to do with happiness in this life. Last week I was reminded of my past while hearing confessions at the annual Youth Fest. I spent much time explaining to high school youth how God—here and now—is guiding them toward the joy they crave, if they will only trust enough to follow him! Many of them seem not to have heard the essential message of the Gospel. Perhaps we as parents, grandparents, and educators need to make the point more bluntly. Certainly we must each strive to be living proof that following Jesus’ radical command of love does in fact lead one to a life “filled” with joy.

–Fr. Tom Frink