Posted by The WORD in other words (2006) by Father Xene Sanchez SVD – Kinshasa, Congo
4th Sunday of Easter – A
Introduction
There are more than one million homeless people today. Hundreds of thousands of refugees live in tents, others in squatter areas, under bridges, on sidewalks, and even in cemeteries. In big cities like Kinshasa, the capital of Congo, the majority have no homes of their own. My heart shrinks whenever I see pushcarts overloaded with furniture and family belongings, as families are chased away by landlords. It is humiliating for parents and traumatic for children. Truly, it is everyone’s dream to own a house.
Jesus’ Promise of a Home
This dream will come at the opportune time — hopefully in this life, but certainly in the life to come. Jesus comforts His disciples: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places” (John 14:1–2). He spoke these words during the Passover meal, recalling Israel’s exodus from Egypt, when the people lived in tents while journeying toward the Promised Land (Exodus 12:11; Deuteronomy 8:2).
Jesus assures us of a permanent home with the Father. As His passion and death approached, He said: “I go to prepare a place for you… so that where I am, you also may be” (John 14:3). These words apply not only to His disciples but to us as well. We are pilgrims on earth, journeying toward the Father.
Faith as Our Resting Place
Saint Augustine captures this longing: “My heart is restless until it rests in You, O God.” Deep within us is the desire to see the Father. Through Jesus — the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6) — we will one day be united with Him.
Saint Peter reminds us that God’s house is not merely a physical building but a spiritual reality: “Like living stones, let yourselves be built into a spiritual house” (1 Peter 2:5). Jesus is the cornerstone (1 Peter 2:6), and we are the living stones. This reality is not only about tomorrow but about today. Our communities, rooted in Christ, are meant to become true homes of faith, love, and belonging.
Conclusion
My best wish for you and me, when our time comes, is that we can say without fear but with joy and eagerness: “I am going to the Father.” Until then, may we build spiritual homes here on earth, where Christ dwells among us and where His love makes us secure.
“Lord Jesus, prepare my heart as Your dwelling place, and lead me one day to the Father’s house.”
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