John 14:1-6
Our experience of the pandemic brought the reality of death very close to us. We remember the heartbreaking stories of people dying alone and of families not being able to be at the hospital bedside of a loved one. The idea of someone dying alone is something which haunts and troubles us.
It’s into these very situations that Jesus speaks his words of comfort, ‘Do not let your hearts be troubled, trust in God still and trust in me.’ However agonizing the circumstances this promise holds true. Added to these words of comfort is a promise that is easily overlooked:
‘There are many rooms in my Father’s house;
if there were not, I should have told you.
I am going now to prepare a place for you…‘
It’s the word ‘prepare’ which always strikes me. It makes me think of the times that I have prepared a room, adding the little touches that I hope will be welcoming. I love the idea of Jesus has prepared a place for each of us. Nothing is being left to chance. The love that brought us into the world now prepares a place for us.
How do you hear Christ’s promise?