A Moment To Pause: Sunday 31st May 2026

Good morning and welcome to the Oblate time of prayer and reflection today by Sarah Braid, a member of the Oblate Parish of St Joseph's, Colwyn Bay. Today's Gospel is from the Holy Gospel according to the Gospel of John, chapter three, verses 16 to 18. I find this Gospel quite difficult and also very beautiful. What stays with me first is the love within it. For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son. God sends his Son not to condemn the world, but to save it. I found myself reflecting on the line about condemnation. It almost feels as though separation from separation from God begins within the human heart. When we close ourselves off from faith, hope, or love. The Gospel feels quite mystical to me. It also speaks about eternal life, and I find comfort in that. It makes me think of the people we love who have died, and the hope that they remain held in God's love and peace. What I take from this Gospel most is not fear, but love, mercy and the invitation should remain open to God. Thank you for reflecting with us today.