Finding hope in these troubled times

We are living in troubled times. Every day wars causing so much death and destruction continue at the international level. Closer to home, the high cost of living, rising unemployment, low wages in essential services such as health and housing are causing problems for thousands. The danger is that problems outside ourselves can cause desperation, anger and frustration that can effect relationships in families and communities. In this time of uncertainty, our daily gospel readings are bringing us a rich source of hope and confidence. Over the next weeks, the liturgy presents us with readings from John's gospel. Experts calculate that John wrote his gospel between the years 90 to 100, that is nearly 60 years after the death of Jesus. During that time he reflected on all the teachings of Jesus that he remembered. The fruit of his meditations are contained especially in chapters 13 to 17 which are a central part of his spiritual teaching. He wrote at a time when people were facing persecution and deportation. He constantly reminds us that God, our loving Father, and his Son Jesus are with us in times of difficulty.

 

Today we hear, ''If anyone loves me, my Father will come and make our home with them.'' Throughout these chapters, John repeats his central theme. ''Love one another as I have loved you.'' For John, we will be able to overcome all hardships if we remain united with him, encouraging and supporting each other. ''I want all my followers to be one with each other, just as I am with you and you are with me. I also want them to be one with us, then my followers will have the same complete joy that I have.'' (17:13,21) Jesus, be a guiding star before me, be a flaming hope within me.