# Jesus Is Alive With Us Always
*2016-03-14*

> Bill reflects on the Lenten reading from Pope Francis, the feast of St. Maximilian, and the importance of recognizing Christ’s constant presence in our missionary work.

## Lenten Reading and the Feast of St. Maximilian

Good evening, I’m Bill Young. Today is Monday of the fifth week of Lent, and we’re reading from *Renew Our Hearts: A Personal Invitation to the Lenten Conversion* by Pope Francis. The title for today’s reflection is “Jesus is alive with us always.” It is also the feast day of St. Maximilian, a third‑century martyr who refused to join the Roman army and gave his life for the Lord. His witness reminds us that Christ is always with us, even in the face of death.

## John 10:14‑15 – Knowing the Good Shepherd

The passage we hear is John 10:14‑15: “I know my own and my own know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father.” This verse teaches that a personal, intimate relationship with Jesus is the foundation of authentic evangelization. It is not enough to merely know about Jesus; we must truly know Him, walk with Him, hear His word, and contemplate His presence.

## Living the Gospel in Missionary Service

A true missionary who remains a disciple understands that Jesus walks, speaks, breathes, and works with us. He senses Christ alive in the midst of the missionary enterprise. If we fail to recognize His presence at the heart of our commitment, our enthusiasm wanes and we lose clarity about what we are handing on to others. Conviction, enthusiasm, certainty, and love are essential; without them, our witness falls short.

## Prayer for Awareness of Christ’s Presence

Jesus, help me always recognize your presence with me in all I say and do. Amen.

*Our missionary zeal depends on a lived, personal encounter with Christ, who is always present with us.*