One of the most devastating events in life is the loss of a loved one, either through separation, distance, estrangement or death. The sadness is more profound when this loss is sudden. In the final days of His life on earth, leading up to His Crucifixion, we see Jesus preparing His Apostles for His Death.
Many would agree that home is where we find those we love. In St. John’s account, Jesus tells the Apostles that He is going away. Not just away but to prepare a place for them in His home. Although they will feel sadness with His departure, Jesus tells the Apostles (and us) not to be anxious or afraid.
As St. Paul reminds us in his letter to the Romans, “nothing can separate us from the love of God that comes to us through Christ Jesus.” Our relationship with Jesus cannot be severed by death. To validate this, Jesus instituted the Eucharist through which He continually gives Himself to each of us as food for the journey we make toward our heavenly home and as the fulfillment of His promise that He would remain with us until the end of time. May we always approach this Sacrament with amazement and gratitude!
Sister Marcella Louise Wallowicz, CSFN
