Blessed are you who weep now,
for you will laugh. (Luke 6:21)

Each line of these Beatitudes ‘messes with our heads’. For those who have reason to weep – whether it is because of other’s cruelty, a broken relationship, the loss of a loved one (and the list goes on) – laughing seems very distant. The time of God’s reign will be a time for rejoicing, both in itself and because of the joy of the justice and right relationships which are its hallmark.

So, our work with young people takes on another facet. We can help them to discern the times when the best they can do is journey with someone who is grieving, from the times when their actions and the character of their relationships will bring healing. Sometimes, maybe even bring a little justice. Such difficult and important work helps God’s reign become a more lived reality.

Have a great week!
Patrick