In today’s Gospel, Jesus tries to “untrouble” the hearts of his disciples at the Last Supper. Their hearts are troubled as they face Jesus’ imminent death. Jesus calls them to strengthen their faith by putting their trust in him and God. Martin Luther suggested that we “hang our hearts on Jesus and God,” rather than hanging our hearts on the things this world gives to soothe us during troubling times.
Our feelings are based on our thinking. In order to experience peace during troubling times, we need to allow our faith to influence our way of thinking. We need to “think big,” reflecting on just how big, mysterious, and loving God is. In today’s Gospel, Jesus tries to change the way the disciples think about life after death. This different way of thinking about death calms their fears.
As we celebrate Mother’s Day today, I can’t help but think of how my mother gave me strength during troubling times in my life. She was always there, especially in times of sickness. I was “laid up” for a week in eighth grade after being hit by a car while riding my bike. I had some minor injuries. The friend I was with spent six months in a full-body cast with multiple broken bones. My primary memories of that time were how my mother helped me through my injuries and concern for my friend. Even now, during times of sickness and trouble, I want my mom! Just thinking of her, and longing to be with her again, helps to get me through troubling times.