Dwelling Place in the Father's House

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season:  Fourth Week :  Friday*

*Gospel : Jn 14:1-6*

*First Reading :  Acts 13:26-33*

*Responsorial Psalm : 2:6-7, 8-9, 10-11ab*

*Dwelling Place in the Father's House*

*1) The Father's House: A Picture of Eternal Communion*

The *“Father’s house”* refers to heaven—the eternal dwelling place of God. 

It is not just a physical location, but a relational space where believers will live in the presence of God.

Just as a loving father welcomes his children into his home, so God welcomes us into eternal fellowship with Him.

Psalm 23:6 – *“I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”*

*2) Many Dwelling Places: A Personal Welcome for All*

The word used here for *“dwelling places”* (Greek: monai) can be translated as rooms, abodes, or places to stay. 

The idea is not of luxurious mansions in the earthly sense, but of permanent, prepared spaces—secure, intimate, and lasting.

This reflects the inclusivity and abundance of God’s grace. 

There is room for all who believe. No one who trusts in Christ will be turned away or find the house full.

*3) Prepared by Jesus Himself*

“I go to prepare a place for you.” — John 14:2

Jesus not only speaks of the Father’s house—He personally prepares the way for us to enter it. 

His death and resurrection open the path to eternal life.

The *“preparation”* is not about furniture or space—it is about His redemptive work on the cross, which makes it possible for us to live with God forever.

*4) The Assurance of Belonging*

This verse reassures us that our future is secure in God’s hands. 

In seasons of grief, fear, or uncertainty, we can find peace knowing that there is a place—a home—already prepared for us.

2 Corinthians 5:1 – *“We have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands.”*

*5) The Joy of Eternal Fellowship*

The beauty of heaven is not the dwelling itself, but the presence of God. 

The *“many dwelling places”* reflect the fullness of life with God—not loneliness or distance, but intimacy, community, and peace.

*6) Jesus: The Only Way to the Father's House*

“I am the way...” — John 14:6

Jesus doesn’t say He knows the way or teaches the way—He is the way.

Salvation and access to the Father are not found in a path, system, or religion, but in a person. 

This exclusive claim is not narrow-minded—it’s an invitation into a relationship with the One who gave His life for us.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*