Photo illustration by Phil Younk
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Based on the Gospel of John 14:1-12
Which way do we go? That’s what we ask when getting ready for a trip or going somewhere we’ve never been. We check maps, program a GPS or get directions from someone so we won’t get lost.
This Sunday’s Gospel is really a flashback. It takes us back to the Last Supper when the disciples are afraid and anxious because Jesus tells them he will soon be leaving them. Jesus talks to his disciples about his Father; he tells them to have faith in his Father and in him, and that he is going home to his Father, where he will prepare a place for them.
Why does the church want us to hear this Gospel during the Easter Season? Because we celebrate the great truth of our faith: Jesus lives! Through his death and Resurrection, Jesus opened the doors to his Father’s house – heaven – our true home.
Jesus says, “I am the way and the truth and the life. Through me you will know how to find my Father’s house.” Jesus tells his disciples – and he tells us – he is “the way” because he showed what must be done to get to heaven.
We have been given the gift of baptism to live as the Body of Christ on earth and to continue Jesus’ mission. The map or directions we follow are prayer, the Ten Commandments, the Scriptures, attending Mass, receiving the sacraments, especially reconciliation and holy Communion and following Jesus’ teaching through the church.
Jesus calls us to be his followers, not solely for our own sake, but also that we bring his saving message to others. Jesus challenges us to live our faith by loving others and meeting their needs – the poor, the sick, the hungry, the homeless, the dying and so on. At the same time, he sustains us with his grace through prayer and the sacraments to help us avoid sin and evil and to energize and strengthen us to live our faith.
Jesus is the way to salvation. Jesus made it clear that it would not be easy, but if we follow him, we won’t get lost and we will safely reach our destination – everlasting life and happiness with him in heaven.
