Have faith also in me

We start to read the farewell speech of Jesus contained in chapters 14-17. These readings prepare us for the solemnity of the Ascension, the last day of Jesus’ physical presence on earth. Gathered with his disciples in the upper room during the Last Supper, Jesus talks about his imminent departure. The disciples are troubled upon hearing that there is a traitor in their midst. They are also distressed by the fact that Jesus is leaving and they cannot follow him. After three years in his close company, they are now losing him. How perplexed and fearful are they at this moment! Jesus addresses this moment of gloom with a promise of a place in the Father’s house which he will prepare for their future reunion. In his going back to the Father, Jesus becomes the forerunner who prepares the way and makes it sure and safe for his disciples to follow.

In this moment of goodbye, Jesus enjoins them to have faith: “You have faith in God; have faith also in me.” This is always the faith they should manifest amidst sadness and confusion. How is your faith activated in the face of some negative emotions?

GOSPEL • John 14:1-6

Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me. In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If there were not, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back again and take you to myself, so that where I am you also may be. Where I am going you know the way.”

Thomas said to him, “Master, we do not know where you are going; how can we know the way?” Jesus said to him, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”