5th Sunday of Easter
The opening line for today’s Gospel has Jesus addressing all of the disciples. In my imagination, I can see Peter pushing Thomas and Philip forward to ask the questions he is perhaps a bit timid (out of character for him) to ask himself. In any event, Jesus takes the initiative and says to all of them, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God, believe also in me.” I think that the key to the entire gospel today is based solidly on the word “heart.” This is very important for our meditation this Sunday. We can easily get lost as we consider the rest of this text. Jesus also says: “There are many mansions (dwelling places) in my Father’s house.”
Before we begin this meditation, we need to get over the urge to call or run down to IKEA, Home Depot, or Ethan Allen to redecorate this “Dwelling Place.” What Jesus is referring to is that there is “room” for you not in some imaginary house or dwelling place, but rather in the very HEART of God. It’s all about the “heart of God.” We are invited to dwell where God has made room for us.
How do we get there? We ask with the disciples. There is only one WAY says Jesus: I AM THE WAY! The Father and I are ONE. “Have I been with you all this time, and you still do not know me? Whoever sees me sees the Father.” Words spoken to the disciples, but they are meant for you and me today!
Let Us Pray:
“I am the way, the truth, and the life, says the Lord; no one comes to the Father, except through me.” Lord, keep us on the way and in the truth that will lead us to life in You. Amen.
