Jesus takes it hard. He withdraws to a deserted place alone ~ and he prays. Like Jesus, we too are impacted by life's trials, setbacks and unforeseen changes: a doctor's report; a request for a divorce; a miscarriage; the loss of a child, a parent, a job, a pastor, or even a pope! Each of these causes us to pause, catch our breath, and pray. Praying is critical because life and the needs of others don't halt because we do. That is, Jesus withdrew but the hungry crowds only grew hungrier and the seekers only searched more diligently! But when they found Jesus ~ he was ready to meet their needs! Why? Because he prayed! To pray is to invite God into your difficult circumstances and allow Him to turn those circumstances into building blocks rather than stumbling blocks.

When God says to his people "Come to the water" (Isiah 55:1) he calls them in their greatest need (thirst, hunger, poverty). When St. Paul speaks of the indomitable love of Christ, he is speaking precisely to those experiencing great distress, persecution, and an uncertain future. Those who find hope in his words are those who refuse to allow the noise of their grief, fears, and disappointments to drown out the voice of God. Paul was convinced that nothing could separate him from the love of Christ. Are you convinced that nothing can prevent God from turning today's emptiness into tomorrow's abundance?