From Sorrow to Joy: Courage Through Christ’s Presence
From Sorrow to Joy: Courage Through Christ’s Presence Readings First Reading - First Reading - Acts of the Apostles 18:9-18 Responsorial Psalm- Psalm 47:2-7 Alleluia - Matthew 28:19,20 Gospel Reading - John 16:20-23 Th e readings from Acts 18:9–18; Psalm 47; Matthew 28:19–20; and John 16:20–23 remind us that God remains with His people in times of fear and difficulty, turning sorrow into joy and strengthening us to continue His mission. In the Gospel of Gospel of John (16:20–23), Jesus speaks honestly to His disciples about the pain and confusion they are about to experience: “You will weep and mourn, while the world rejoices.” But He immediately gives them hope: “Your sorrow will turn into joy.” Jesus compares this transformation to a woman giving birth—painful for a time, but leading to new life and deep joy. This teaches us that God can bring hope and renewal even out of suffering and uncertainty. Many times in life, we may experience seasons of grief, disappointme...