Gospel Reflection - 5th Sunday of Easter, Year A


John 14:1-12

“In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places.”

As a child, my bedroom was a collection of girly things – dolls, toys, and lots of pink stuff.  When I reached my teen years, my room consisted of various collectible items & souvenirs, books, & a wall plastered with New Kids on the Block posters.  Prior to the births of our children, my husband and I spent time preparing their rooms by putting the crib together, hanging or folding clothes and blankets, & making a space for those late night feedings.  Our home of six people is now an eclectic mix of each of our personalities – a dining room with antique photos decorating the walls, an entertainment themed family room, Lego collections, and many sacramentals and objects of our Faith.  Our decorating styles change with each stage of our lives.  The things we collect and display are a reflection of our interests and personalities during those times. 

Jesus tells us in today’s Gospel that there are many dwelling places in His Father’s house and that He is preparing a place for us.  We often hear that we cannot take our material possessions with us when we die, so what type of preparation is Jesus making for us? 

If we go back to the last sentence of my first paragraph, He will be decorating with things pertaining to our interests at that time.  And what will those interests be?  There will be no need to hang up posters of our favorite musicians or sports figures, no toys, books, or collections on shelves.  Our only interest will be to live in the presence of God with joy and peace.  I believe our dwelling place in Heaven will be full of light, life, and love.  

How much of your current decorating scheme reflects your Faith and Heavenly goal?

What can you let go of in your life right now to prepare yourself for your ultimate dwelling place?

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