May 25, 2017

Gospel: Jn 16:16-20
Jesus said to his disciples: ”A little while, and you will see me no more; and then a little while, and you will see me.”
Some of the disciples wondered, ”What does he mean by, ‘A little while, and you will not see me; and then a little while, and you will see me‘? And why did he say, ‘I go to the Father‘?” And they said to one another, ”What does he mean by ‘a little while‘? We don‘t understand.”
Jesus knew that they wanted to question him; so he said to them, ”You are puzzled because I told you that in a little while you will see me no more, and then a little while later you will see me.
”Truly, I say to you, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn to joy.”

REFLECTION:
Little children sometimes display anxiety when they could not see the familiar face of their parents or love ones. They become insecure and afraid. This childish behavior is translated into adult behaviors as well. The fear of separation is as much apart of adult life too. That is why Jesus is preparing His disciples for the momentary separation that will take place ahead. They will not have Him physically present always. Time will come when they have to hold on to His memories in their heart to continue the task at hand. This process will be slow and painful. It is better to start early. And so when the disciples will enter the dark and painful nights of the passion and death of the Lord, they will remember His words and hopefully it will comfort them and sustain them.