Jesus Is the Way Home
May 16, 2025 - Friday of the Fourth Week of Easter
John 14:1–6
Have you ever been homesick? Maybe you were away at camp, on a school trip, or just going through something that made you long for comfort, safety, and the people who love you. That’s what home is supposed to feel like—peaceful, secure, warm, and true.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells His friends something huge. He’s about to leave them, and they’re scared. Everything they know is about to change. But Jesus reassures them with words that echo deep in our hearts: “Do not let your hearts be troubled… I’m going to prepare a place for you.” In other words: You belong with me. You have a home. And I’m not leaving forever—I’m making space for you.
That’s not just sweet talk—it’s the heart of the Christian life. Jesus calls heaven the Father’s house, and He’s going there through the cross. Yeah, through suffering, not around it. The cross isn’t the end of the story. It’s the narrow, difficult path that leads to life. Jesus walks that road first—not just to return to the Father, but to open the way for us.
And here’s the best part: Jesus doesn’t want heaven without us. He wants us with Him—forever.
That’s what love looks like. No matter what mistakes the disciples made (and they made a few!), Jesus didn’t turn away. He stayed faithful. He knew their weaknesses, but He still wanted them near. And He still wants you. No failure, no fear, no moment of doubt can cancel His love or undo His invitation.
Jesus says, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” Not just a set of directions, not just a map—He is the way. When we follow Him—by living with love, by forgiving, by serving others—we’re already walking the road home.
Later in the story, something amazing happens. Jesus tells Mary Magdalene, “I’m going to my Father.” But that same night, He returns to His disciples with the greatest gift ever: the Holy Spirit. God Himself, breathing new life into them. From that moment on, they weren’t just people who followed Jesus—they became walking, living temples of God. That means you too—yes, you—are a sacred space, a home for God’s Spirit.
So when you feel lost, tired, or far from where you think you should be, remember this: Jesus has already gone ahead to prepare a place for you. He knows the way, because He is the way. And His plan isn’t just about “someday in heaven.” He wants to be with you here and now—guiding you, strengthening you, and whispering in your heart:
"You belong. You are mine. And I’m leading you home."