Jesus said to his disciples:
“Do not let your hearts be troubled.
You have faith in God; have faith also in me.
In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places.
If there were not,
would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you?
And if I go and prepare a place for you,
I will come back again and take you to myself,
so that where I am you also may be.
Where I am going you know the way.”

John 14: 1-4

Here are the complete readings for Friday, May 16, 2025.

(“Jesus Farewell Discourse” from the Maesta by Duccio)

Jesus promised his friends and humanity that he would prepare a place for us. This means that just as he welcomes us with open arms, so are we to be generous and to have room for others at our tables, or in our communities. Sometimes we can find the opportunity to do this literally by welcoming strangers, those who are new, and especially the ones who are unwanted in whatever circumstance. It is more likely that we will be challenged to show generosity by be open to a calling that we did not expect and which is inconvenient. We had a plan or path for ourselves, and it has not turned out as we’d hoped it would. Where do we go when we are disappointed by turns of events or fate? Are we listening to our hearts to be available for the signs of God that are right in front of us? And if we can sense these signs, do we dare turn towards them, with a generous heart, even if it diverges from the path we had intended?

It is this communion with the living God
which is at the heart of your life
as a child of God,
disciple of Jesus,
witness of God’s spirit,
quickened member of God’s Body,
and brother or sister to the world.

– The Fundamental Principles of the Xaverian Brothers

God, we are blessed with sisters and brothers who encourage us and guide us. Their actions and intentions are a most powerful grace that connects us all to You and your Spirit. Amen