So often we hear it said, or have said it ourselves: if only there was a clear cut way through this particular situation, through the ups and downs of daily life, through this whole adventure called human life; if only there was some perspective that stands as objective, as opposed to what is subjective: what I make it out things to be (for I often do not have an "eagle's-eye view of things"); if only there was some kind of guarantee that life is of supreme value and that it survives death – and goes on forever – and that I truly will be accountable for my deeds.
There is exactly such a guarantee, such a truth, such a way and it is: THE PERSON OF JESUS, the Christ – not simply ideas about him, concepts, doctrines, disciplines: but THE REAL PERSON OF THE RISEN JESUS. He truly does make all the difference for us!
The thrust of the readings as we approach soon the Feast of the Ascension is that, in summary: Jesus is the Messiah, he was rejected and killed by his own people; redemption, however, was not withheld, even from those who killed him, but it is even offered now to everyone else: he died for all; and now this good news of redemption and mercy and forgiveness will be preached to everyone everywhere and for those who believe in HIM (not just the words – but in HIM the person); those who want to enter into a Friendship with Divine attributes with HIM will be escorted one day to a place that Jesus promises (in the gospel passage) is already prepared for them.
There is no reason to be afraid of life or death now; Jesus, our Friend and Shepherd has everything in his gentle, yet powerful control!
If we believe in HIM deeply, whom we receive in transubstantiated bread and wine, we shall enjoy an amazing depth of quality of life today; and we will have something wonderful to share with all who need it: we will have the PERSON OF JESUS to offer as comfort, strength and joy to others!
I am the way and the truth and the life, says the Lord; no one comes to the Father except through me.
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