Pope John Paul II Speaks to Youth

Week Thirty-Four

A lamp shining in a dark place... (2 Peter 1:19)

"Remember what Jesus said: 'I am the light of the world; those who follow me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.' (John 8:12, NAB)" --Pope John Paul II, St. Louis, Missouri

Think About That

The light of the world is Jesus. Jesus' life is the light of the world. The popular phrase, "What Would Jesus Do?" is another way of saying, "what is the light that Jesus sheds in the world?" When there is light we can see things as they really are, completely. But in darkness we can't see clearly. We need light to see what's real, what's true. Jesus is the light! Jesus is real! Jesus is the truth!

Take Action

Turn off the lights in your room so that there is complete darkness. Now, close your eyes and walk around the room. Notice that you are more cautious than you would be if the lights were on and your eyes were open. This week think about this experience when you see an opportunity to do what Jesus would do. In other words, reveal the light of life, the light of Jesus Christ, when you see others stumbling in the dark.

Say A Prayer

Jesus, you are the light of my life. Help me to always see the world through your eyes so that I may be more like you everyday. Amen.

Did You Know?

Pope John Paul II celebrated his first Mass at the crypt of St. Leonard at Wawel on November 2, 1946.


Taken from...
My Dear Young Friends: Pope John Paul II Speaks to Youth on Life, Love, and Courage
Copyright © 2002 -- Reprinted with permission of the editor, John M. Vitek.

My Dear Young Friends, a collection of fifty-two weekly reflections on living in the Spirit, invites young people to read and act on Pope John Paul II's inspiring addresses to young people gathered at annual World Youth Day celebrations. Please visit www.smp.org for more information from the publisher, Saint Mary's Press.

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