It must have been about 1956 or 57. We were to have a three day retreat in preparation for the renewal of vows on November 21st our founding day. For me it was a true renewal because I did not yet have perpetual vows. As we went into chapel I felt a little giggle arising because in the sanctuary was a paper chart board with a drawing of stomach, heart, liver and gall bladder. The "retreat master" was a Spanish Jesuit who had escaped or been exiled from newly Communist China. He proved to be way ahead of his time as he told stories of people who were ill because they held on to guilt or grudges. He told of the importance of forgiveness and cultivating joy and peace. Yes, joy must be tended like a beautiful flower in a garden. His motto was "Always have smiling eyes". Ever since I have wondered what my face says when it is relaxed. I have watched people who have generous and loving hearts, but whose exterior paints them as driven, bitter and judgemental.... What a waste in a world that is starved for joy.
The Gospel readings of these post Easter days tell us that Jesus wants to come with His Father to live within us, to have supper with us. What a party we can have if we think about it!..... The requisites are so simple, "Obey my commandments". These commandments are simply the dictates of our state in life.... earning a living for our family, being patient in the messy commute. When we hug and kiss a spouse or child, prepare a dinner, strive for patience in an irritating situation, wait calmly in a long check out line, say something pleasant in a casual encounter.... These are the "commandments" for most of us.
If we are Catholic Christians blessed by the Sacraments, joy should be the normal climate in which we live. If we forget, or misstep, we have an advocate or lawyer always ready to defend us, seated beside the Heavenly Father , We need only come to Jesus and ask forgiveness and blessing.... even simply cry "help", and we find that joy returns.... Father Nacisso Irala, SJ. if I remember your name correctly, I am still striving to always have "smiling eyes".
