I am the Way, the Truth and the Life

Today’s Gospel finds Jesus with his disciples at the Last Supper. He knows that he is about to die, and he offers words of encouragement to his friends; there is a place for them in the Father’s house. His death will not be the end.

The disciples are not ready to hear the message. Although they have come to know Jesus and have heard his teaching, they are not yet able to trust him completely. Doubting Thomas wants to know the way to the place where Jesus is going. Philip wants proof – he asks to see God the Father.

Jesus’ reply is: ‘I am the Way, the Truth and the Life.’ He asks his disciples to trust in him absolutely, holding nothing back. Jesus is completely united with his Father, and to be his disciple is to be invited to share in the love between Father and Son.

It’s hard for us to truly put our trust in Christ. The things of the world – money, possessions, success – may tempt us, but they will not make us truly happy. In today’s Second Reading, St Peter, quoting Isaiah, describes Jesus as a ‘cornerstone.’ Our faith in Christ is the only solid foundation that we can build our life on. He is the Way, the Truth and the Life.