May 19, Tuesday Easter Weekday

Your right hand saves me, O Lord.-- Psalm 138:7

Mass readings: Acts 16:22-34 / John 16:5-11

My Rock

When I hear today's story of an earthquake so severe that it shook the foundation of the jail where Paul and Silas were, I imagine myself standing in the ocean. No matter how firmly I strive to stand, the incessant motion of the waves and its invisible currents quickly soften the foundation under me, begin to bury me into the sand, and leave me feeling as if I'm standing on quicksand.

One of the many graces that the ocean offers me is the reminder that I'm not in control. I can and must do my part (prepare, work hard) -- yet life's ''earthquakes'' and ''waves'' will inevitably come. They may be strong enough to shake me up, but I can keep my footing if God is my true foundation.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, be my rock of refuge.