Homesickness and God's people in Jesus' farewell prayer

Third Sunday of Easter

Gospel of John 17:11–17 The Homesickness of God’s People

Jesus prayed and said:

“I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world when I come to you. Holy Father, protect them through your name, which you have given me, so that they may be one, just as we are one. While I was with them, I protected them through your name, which you gave me. I have kept them, and not one of them is lost, except the one who is destined to perish, so that the Scriptures might be fulfilled.

And now I am coming to you. I speak these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have my joy fulfilled. I have given them your word, and they have received the world’s wrath, because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. However, I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through your truth. Your word is the truth.” (John 17:11-17, second edition)

Feel homesick

Chapter 17 of the Gospel of John, also known as the Farewell Prayer, is one of the most powerful prayers that Jesus prayed before His death on the cross. In this prayer, He prays for His disciples and contemplates their future as He prepares to return to the Father. There may have been sadness and longing in the hearts of the disciples, just as many of us sometimes feel homesick. This Sunday, we will examine what homesickness means for God’s people and how it relates to Jesus’ prayers and promises.

The Context of Jesus’ Prayer

Jesus’ prayer is divided into several sections in which He speaks of the challenges His disciples face in this world. He clearly understood that without Him, they would be orphans. Therefore, their homesickness may not only be directed towards their heavenly home, but also towards this temporal home to which we are deeply attached. For example, according to research, about 75% of people feel homesick for their childhood home as adults.

Homesickness and the Spiritual Journey

Homesickness does not always mean just returning home physically. At different stages of our lives, we can also experience a deep longing for our heavenly home. We live in a time where temptations and distractions are constantly present. Youth in particular is a time when it can be easy to get lost in seeking happiness in worldly things, such as a career or social relationships.

As adulthood approaches, adversity, such as illness and grief, raises questions about the purpose of life. At this point, many begin to feel a longing again for the safe and peaceful heavenly home that awaits us. For example, according to one study, 65 percent of adults experience a growing spiritual longing as life’s difficulties arise.

God’s protection every day

Life is full of challenges, and in the midst of them we need God’s constant protection. When we pray for young people, we hope that they will find a safe path in their lives. Young people face many temptations, and it is important that they experience God’s presence every day. His guidance can help them make good choices.

As adults, the danger can be to completely lose sight of the heavenly path. We can be so carried away by worldly life that we forget our spiritual goals. The fates of the disciples remind us that we are not alone on the journey. God guides and sustains us.

Retirement and settling down

When we reach retirement age, it is rare for us to completely lose sight of the heavenly path if we have been on it for a long time. However, this does not mean that life is without challenges. Age often brings illnesses and pains that make our days more difficult. Many of us have found how prayer and the Word of God have been sources of strength and peace in difficult times.

Retirement brings time with loved ones and deep questions about the meaning of life. It is important to understand that prayer is the best security we can give ourselves. It helps us to face the final stages of our lives with peace of mind.

Heaven’s Home—Eternal Peace

What makes heaven so special? It is a place where there is no sickness, fear, or want. Heaven’s home is eternal, filled with joy, peace, and love. The thought of being with God forever provides comfort and hope. Religions around the world emphasize the calming power of heaven, and this brings joy to believers.

Jesus is the fulfiller of his promise; he will take care of us and open the way for us to his heavenly home. As we move forward, it is important to share Jesus’ love and peace with those around us.

Conclusion

Homesickness is a complex emotion that can grow over time. In Jesus’ farewell prayer, the disciples’ homesickness reflects a deep connection to the Son of God and their lives in this world. While practical challenges in life may bring out longing, it is important to remember the heavenly home that awaits us. God's protection, the power of prayer, and Jesus' constant care provide us with daily support. So let us allow our Lord to give us the strength to continue our heavenly journey forward.