Welcoming the Holy
Here we invite you to take time for yourself in personal prayer. The following spiritual reflection offers words and images which we hope will evoke for you an experience of God.
By: Sister Susan Schantz
Reading
John 14:1-2
Jesus said to his disciples:
"Do not let your hearts be troubled.
You have faith in God; have faith also in me.
In my Father's house there are many dwelling places.”
Reflection
Jesus is gathered at the table with his disciples. It is the night when he will be arrested and condemned. He senses their fear. They have left everything behind to be with him. Now he is leaving them, moving toward a violent end. The disciples wonder, Is Jesus abandoning us? Who are we, if not his disciples and friends? Where shall we go when he is gone?
We, too, may wonder, where is the Jesus we follow? What are we called to do? Who provides protection and shelter? Where is hope in a violent world? What can we do? Where can we go?
In the words of this Sunday’s gospel, Jesus promises those disciples and us that he will always dwell with us. Following him, we will never lack a home. He is our companion, even when he seems absent. We live with and in him. There is room for everyone when we dwell in him.
Closing Prayer
Jesus, refresh our faith that you walk with us, that you are our companion on the road. Kindle our hope that all things are being made new. Sustain us in loving presence to all you have created. And may our dear Church be a home for disciples and have room for all. Amen.
