Daily Reflection
May 16, 2026

In today’s Gospel, John 16:23-28, Jesus tells us that “whatever you ask the Father in my name He will give it to you….ask and you will receive so that your joy will be complete.” This was one of the last things Jesus said to His disciples before He was arrested. It was His last request to His friends. He had told them He was going away but He wanted them to know that He wasn’t leaving them alone and if they trusted in Him they would still find joy no matter what.

It’s interesting, as I reflect on the gospel, several situations come to mind. Let me share one that occurred today. Several weeks ago, I received an email from a colleague who I did not know well. We would say hello in the parking lot at work and occasionally take the same elevator to our respective floors and were always cordial, but didn’t really know each other. This woman, who I’ll call Judy reached out to see if I had any job openings. She had just learned that her hours were going to be reduced due to elimination of some grants which funded her position. I invited her to come to my office to visit. She came to my office and we had a wonderful conversation. We should have done this long ago! While she would be able to remain employed, the cost of her health insurance was going to significantly increase and she didn’t know how she and her spouse would afford the increase. Judy has been a long-time employee and has been very dedicated and well respected. She is near retirement, but not there yet. Sadly, I had no opportunities for her, but I though another colleague might. I reached out to that colleague, and learned some valuable information that I shared with Judy. I wished her well and asked her to stay in touch.

I felt so bad for her and for so many others who have been impacted by such events. Is just isn’t ok that people can work hard, be dedicated to their position and be easily disposed of—often without a second thought by the decision makers.

Since that interaction we have bumped into each other several times and she didn’t have an update. I have been traveling a fair amount the past two weeks, so I hadn’t seen her for a while, but her situation weighed heavily on my mind and she was in my prayers. As I walked toward the building today, I saw her outside chatting with another colleague. She seemed so happy. I stopped to say hello to my colleagues and wish them a great weekend and went on my way. As I turned, Judy called my name. I stopped and we walked into the building together. She had the biggest smile on her face and told me that she was given the opportunity to pick up 16 hours/week in another department. She will be able to continue her work through retirement and maintain her insurance benefits at a place that is affordable for her family. I told her how happy I was for her. I am truly thrilled because the department she will be working in exudes joy! She will be an incredible asset to the individuals served there and her heart will be so full! She agreed. I let her know that I had been praying for her and she told me this had to be a “God thing.” She said she was so worried and she had to give it to God and trust in the prayers she knew were being offered for her. She is grateful for the prayers and I must say, my faith got a nice boost today!

I believe Judy’s story illustrates the importance of asking so that one can receive and experience complete joy.

Take some time to reflect on a time when you asked God for something and your prayers were answered—resulting in complete joy. I’m hopeful that your faith enjoys a boost just as mine has.