Going away to God

May is a time to make plans. Some kids will be going to camp during the summer; families might take vacations or visit people far away. Soon, the kids in your class will all "go away" when school lets out for the summer.

This week's Gospel (John 14:23-29) is about making plans. When Jesus knew He would die soon, He started talking to His Apostles about how to live without Him. He gave them lots of ideas.

"If you love me, listen to my teachings," Jesus told the Apostles. "Then God will come and live in your heart. I'm leaving you soon to go back to heaven; but if you love me, don't be afraid. Remember, I'm going to be with my Father -- and the Holy Spirit will still be with you, even when I'm in heaven."

Planning for the summer can be a little scary. If you're going to camp, you'll miss your family and sleeping in your own bed. If you're going on vacation, you might feel scared to take a long trip or fly on a plane.

Jesus' Apostles were scared, too. Jesus was going away and leaving them, and they didn't know how to live without Him telling them what to do next. How would they know what to teach people, or even what town to go to?

Going away is easier when you bring your teddy bear, talk about how you're feeling and remember that you'll have a good time on your trip or at camp. Remembering that you'll be coming home makes it easier, too!

Jesus gave His friends some ways to make His trip to heaven easier, too: He said it was okay to miss Him, but that they didn't have to be afraid, because God would be in their hearts. He reminded them to do what He taught -- love everyone -- because that would bring them even closer to Him.

Jesus' plans with His Apostles for His trip were a lot like yours. You bring your teddy bear, but Jesus left something even better for His friends: the Holy Spirit, who would watch over them forever!

PRAYER FOR THE WEEK: Jesus, help me remember that going away can be scary, but you're always with me! Amen.

(05-14-98) [[In-content Ad]]