“I have told you this while I am with you… The Advocate, the holy Spirit, that the Father
will send in my name, he will teach you everything, and remind you of all that [I] have told
you.” (Jn. 14:25-26)
Twice in life I have experienced the similar feeling the disciples may have felt when they
heard Jesus say “I I have said these things… while I am still with you.” The incidences
occurred when I relied on my parents to be present and supportive through challenges in
life.
After our first child was born my parents stayed with us to guide as we transitioned in
becoming parents. Within a few days they announced “time for us to leave”. My reaction
similar to the disciples was “What you’re leaving?” But who will guide us? My parents
smiled and said we’ll be near have faith “Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be
afraid.” (Jn.14: 1, 26)
A different time when I felt alone was when our parents had gone to their Eternal home. I
had shared a lifetime and suddenly they were no longer here. Their words of assurance
echoed “We’ll be near have faith… trust God to guide you” through life’s circumstances.
Since Easter the Gospels have shared what Jesus said to his disciples “I in a little while the
world will no longer see me, but you will see me, because I live and you will live. Peace I
leave with you; my peace I give to you.”(Jn. 14:19, 27)
As disciples of Jesus we will be challenged and tempted by outside forces that will have us
questioning our faith. It is during those complicated times we are to recall that Jesus’
assures us… very truly, I tell you, you will weep and mourn, but the world will rejoice; you
will have pain, but your pain will turn to joy.” (Jn. 20) Our choice when faced with fear
and loss is to keep our hearts open to the Holy Spirit to the love that comes in new life.
“Eternal and ever-living God, help us to always trust in you even when others reject your
Word. May we find sustenance in your saving power and praise you joyfully throughout
the seasons of life. In a little while, grant that we will see you face-to face and in your light
know the fullness of life forever, you who live and reign with the Son and Holy Spirit, one
God forever and ever. Amen.” (Rev. Brad Metz, C.S.C.)