During the three years that Jesus performed His ministry, He showed the disciples the way - their destination was pointed out many times by Jesus. Reading the signs along the way was difficult - the disciples sometimes did not make the connections. They at times appeared disgruntled and afraid of what they could not do, i.e. follow Jesus wholeheartedly.

In today's Gospel, Jesus speaks to the disciples and to us as He says, "I am the way and the truth and the life." What wonderful and comforting words! We are told the secret to everlasting life - we are told it is to follow Jesus, the "way". We need to walk the road (the "way" He pointed out = Himself.) We must always search for Jesus, the "truth", and in so doing, we can emulate His gifts and share them with others. Jesus is the "life" to which we all aspire, the reason we, too, endure trials and difficulties. We hope that we may experience His "life" after our earthly one is over.

Do we truly believe Jesus is the way and the truth and the life?
How do we preach this belief by our lives?
How do we keep on going when the signs along the way are not clear but blurry and at times confusing?

Jesus, as I walk through life, help me to receive all that You promised. Help me to see, to hear, and to follow You more willingly and effectively. Enable me to give to others the gifts You have shared with me. May I minister to all with Your love and compassion. Amen.

Sr. Barbara Werner, O.P.