Searching for Meaning

I find it just a touch ironic that in John’s Gospel, of all the Gospels, the disciples might say, “now you are talking plainly.”  John’s Gospel is rich in imagery and meaning, but the substance can be veiled at times.  Searching for meaning, especially in our lives, can take time and effort.

In today’s world, we want easy answers.  We want knowledge, comfort, and security and we want it now.

Earlier in this chapter of John, Jesus reminds the disciples that their anguish will turn to joy.  While comforting in theory, for anyone experiencing grief or sadness this transformation might seem impossible.  And that’s okay.

Today, on Memorial Day, we remember the sacrifice of those who have gone before us in service to our highest ideals as a people.  We keep their memories alive so that we, like the disciples, might truly appreciate, reverence, and share the gift of peace.

—Jordan Skarr works in the Office of Pastoral Ministries for the Midwest Jesuits.