Gospel Reading: John 14:1-12
When I was growing up, an important role model for me was my aunt Margaret. She lived in a row house in an area of Philly now known as the “Bad Lands.” This is an economically depressed area with high crime and homeless rates, and much drug trafficking. Not exactly prime real estate.
Aunt Margaret was a widow living off her monthly Social Security check. There was sufficient money for necessities but not much for “extras.” She lived in an era when neighbors looked out for each other. If anyone needed a warm meal or a warm bed, her home was always open. She passed away in July 1979. Her death didn’t make the headlines nor the nightly news. She died as she lived – without fanfare.
Today’s Gospel account of Jesus preparing a heavenly home for us was the Gospel proclaimed at her funeral Mass. Her pastor reminded those in attendance that her faith and good works during life were the building materials Jesus used to prepare her heavenly mansion, quite an enormous step up from a poor Philly row house. A life well lived will gain for us an everlasting dwelling place.
In the Gospel narrative, Philip asks Jesus to show him the Father. Jesus replies that He is the image of the Father. We become the image of the Father by becoming the image of Jesus. It has been said that the saint whose life most closely imitated our Savior’s life was Saint Francis of Assisi. Francis often reminded his followers that the most effective way to preach the Gospel is by example.
Pope Leo has designated this year as the Year of Saint Francis. Let us ask his saintly intercession, that we may become icons of Jesus so that we may be images of the Father and gain an everlasting home in heaven.
Continued Easter Blessings!
Sister Marcella Louise Wallowicz, CSFN
