RCIA SESSIONS IN THE PRESENTATION ROOM OF THE PARISH OFFICE FROM 7:00-8:30

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WHO ART IN HEAVEN

Some time ago I spoke of using the Lord’s prayer as a means of meditation. In My homily I suggested that each word and phrase should be considered. What do the words mean and more importantly what should be my response. I spoke of ‘Our’, and ‘Father’, today let’s think about the next phrase who art in heaven.
The who of course is identified as our Abba, our dad. Our dad in heaven. But this phrase names a place, Jesus refers to heaven. In fact, a casual look at the New Testament reveals that Jesus spoke of heaven dozens of times. Jesus is God so His revelation that there is a heaven, should be a comfort to all believers. But what is heaven like.
St. Paul had a vision of heaven, and in his letter to the Corinthians he writes, “No eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man conceived what God has prepared for him.” St. John also in his book of Revelation speaks at great length about the heavens as being the New Jerusalem. He describes God on His throne surrounded by angels singing “Holy, Holy, Holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come!” What’s more John writes, “Behold, the dwelling of God is with people, He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God himself will be with them…”
Jesus at the Last Supper reassures the apostles and us when he tells us, “In my Father’s house are many rooms, I go to prepare a place for you.” So, our Abba’s house has many rooms, and our brother Jesus is preparing those rooms for all who love and follow him. Do you recall the story of the prodigal son. In the end the Father runs to embrace his son and to welcome him home. He dresses him in fine clothes and jewelry and throws a party for him. I believe our Father who art in heaven is preparing just that sort of reception for us, His children.

His Grace and Peace be with you!
Deacon Steve