Scripture readings for this reflection can be found at Friday of the Fourth Week of Easter | USCCB
This
gospel is often used at either wakes or funerals to give comfort to the family
and friends of the dearly departed. I find these words most comforting. Our
life can be full of troubles, whether it’s over the loss of a loved one, or
just dealing with family problems that arise in our relationship with each
other. Life is full of anxiety and problems. But in these words, Jesus is
reminding us that we need to have faith in the Father and in Him, and they will
be present to us in our cares and worries.
Then the
Lord goes on to promise a special dwelling place for each one of us. It’s
comforting to know that the Lord is so concerned for us and loves us so much
that he is preparing a special place for each one of us to go to be happy with
him for all eternity.
It’s at
this point that St. Thomas asks the question, "Master, we do not know
where you are going; how can we know the way?" (John 14:5) Thomas is always asking
these great questions. And as a result, we learn who Jesus is. Jesus says,
"I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father
except through me." (John 14:6)
In this
gospel for today, it is reminding us to always keep focused on Jesus no matter
what our problems happen to be. As we go throughout our day and face the
different challenges, let us pray often the familiar words of St. Faustine,
“Jesus I trust in thee.”
From Arlene B. Muller
ReplyDeleteYES!! Reading this passage from St. John's Gospel this morning was a balm to my spirit, especially because I have some issues (struggling finances, 19 year old car that needed recent repairs, computer & cell phone issues, need to do some work in my apartment, busy schedule so that anything added makes me feel overwhelmed, concern about a friend's health issues & her stress, etc.) that are troubling & stressful.
YES, this is the Gospel I have always chosen when given the opportunity to plan the Scripture readings for the funeral Mass of a family member and/or a friend, & it is the GOSPEL passage I chose & you proclaimed when you kindly s served as Deacon at my Mom's funeral Mass, traveling all the way from the Bronx to Glendale, Queens with the help of Nilda.
YES, we who believe & are baptized and are in the state of grace have the indwelling Triune GOD--Father, Son & Holy Spirit--within us & we can look forward, with the help of GOD'S grace, our cooperation, & the grace of final perseverance, in joyful hope to one day dwell in the special place Our LORD JESUS has prepared especially for us to be our dwelling place in heaven where we will abide in Our LORD'S Presence face to face, along with Our Blessed Mother, the angels, the saints and, hopefully, our many loved ones who have gone before us marked with the sign of faith.