The disciples became puzzled when Jesus spoke to them in John 16:16-20
saying, “a little while and you will not see me, and then a little
while and you will see me”. This was the time that Jesus’ death and
resurrection was preempted. For the disciples, not having to see Jesus
for a while is a way for them to attain maturity in their faith; they
should not only be strong when Jesus is present but all the more when
he is not.
There are times in our lives when we are on a spiritual “high”, feeling
the Lord beside us especially when we share love to others through
charitable ways, during Mass or in faith-related gatherings. There are
also times when we wonder if God is present. These are times when
problems catch up with us, when we hear tragic news about someone we
know or when we have been cheated. We question why these things happen
and perhaps even feel that God has abandoned us. But the truth is -- He
has always been there. It is up to us to acknowledge His presence. Life
happens, but He remains with us in good times and in not so good times.
Nobody said that life is going to be easy. The Lord wants us to remain
strong in faith. Let us find solace and strength in Him.
