Jesus was thirsting for the people of Jerusalem to "come to" Him (see Mt 11:28). He told them: "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem...how often have I yearned to gather your children, as a mother bird gathers her young under her wings, but you refused Me" (Mt 23:37). Jesus thirsted for a people who would accept His saving love, listen to His words, and put them into practice (Mk 4:8-9).

Jesus poured out His life for His beloved people, teaching, healing, and working miracles in their sight. "Despite His many signs performed in their presence, they refused to believe in Him" or gather to Him (Jn 12:37). Therefore, Jesus would gather and save the people through His ministry of suffering, not through His ministry of power and wisdom. He prophesied: "I — once I am lifted up from earth" on the cross "— will draw all men to Myself" (Jn 12:32).

Jesus is thirsty to gather a people under His outstretched, crucified wings, now nailed to the wood of the cross. Stand in the shadow of His wings: at the feet of the crucified Jesus. Satisfy His yearning and thirsting. Let Him gather you under His wings.

Jesus is thirsty for you. Give Jesus a drink. Accept Jesus as Lord and Savior of your life. Accept the way He chooses to manifest Himself today through His Body, the Church. Listen to and obey His every word.

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 27, 2005

The Nihil Obstat ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the Nihil Obstat agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.