What does this mean that he is saying to us, “A little while and you will not see me, and again a little while and you will see me,” and “because I am going to the Father?”

This is one of the puzzling statements that Jesus made that baffled the disciples until Jesus gave the explanation (not found in today’s reading). In this case, Jesus could sense their perplexity and gave further explanation. He warned them once again that discipleship is a costly matter. In the gospels, Jesus continually reminds us over and over of the difficulties of being his disciples, of the cruel cost of faith. This is not easy to accept. For example, the disciples failed to understand the three times that Jesus predicted his passion in Mark’s Gospel. Hence, Jesus warned anyone who would wish to follow him: they must also be willing to take up their crosses daily. Not exactly a promise of glory!

However, Jesus promised he had something to offer to make all the suffering worthwhile. He tells us that he can offer us goodness. He guarantees us joy, peace, and the fullness of life — the only things that bring true happiness. Despite being told in our Declaration of Independence that pursuing happiness is our natural right, Jesus makes it clear that we will never find happiness by seeking happiness. Instead, by seeking to live for others, serve God, and walk along with Jesus, we will find that happiness is our daily companion. This is not to seek happiness for itself as much as goodness, duty, or Christlikeness.

Every Eucharist gives us examples of Jesus’ ability to live for others and give his life for us all. Can we do likewise?

Let Us Pray:

O loving Jesus, give me the strength to follow you despite the cost. Help me to appreciate that by living my life for others, I will enter into the peace and joy of your kingdom.