July 14
“One who accompanies others has to realize that each person’s situation before God and their life in grace are mysteries which no one can fully know from without. Someone good at such accompaniment does not give in to frustrations or fears. He or she invites others to let themselves be healed, to take up their mat, embrace the cross, leave all behind, and go forth ever anew to proclaim the Gospel.
Our personal experience of being accompanied and assisted, and of openness to those who accompany us, will teach us to be patient and compassionate with others, and to find the right way to gain their trust, their openness and their readiness to grow.”
-Pope Francis
Today’s Reflection:
True accompaniment begins with reverence. We don’t force or fix. We invite, walk with, listen, and love. Who in your life needs more patience and compassion than advice, and how might you gently accompany them today?
