Reflections

God Knows No Orphans

There are times in our lives when we feel a sense of abandonment. We might be left with feelings of panic, despair and emptiness at the break up of a relationship, the loss of a loved one; or when the future we thought so secure is turned on its head through job loss, financial ruin or illness. The disciples must be feeling a little like this today at the prospect of Jesus’ departure.

In today’s gospel, Jesus is preparing his disciples for life without his physical presence. He is teaching them how to transcend these moments of fear and uncertainty “Those who love me will keep my words, and my Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them…” Undoubtedly, knowing we are loved helps transcend feelings of abandonment, but Jesus reminds us that love is a two way street. Love isn’t just a feeling it’s a decision, and staying in God’s love means making a decision to keep his words. This doesn’t mean God will no longer love us if we fail to keep a commandment, but it does mean that wanting to keep his words is at the heart of our relationship. It’s not about trying to live up to an impossible set of expectations; it’s about          developing into confident Christians in an atmosphere of love and support.

Today’s gospel speaks to those who are suffering    insecurity and fear. As a Christian community we have a responsibility for promoting belief in God’s love and in the continued support of the Holy Spirit. In this way, when any one of us comes to grief, that belief can come to the rescue. For those who know they are loved, healing comes more quickly. There can be no abandonment in a kingdom that knows no orphans.