Homecoming

When I was a little boy my mother used to take me shopping, or, to be more accurate, I used to accompany her on shopping trips. On Saturdays, we used to go to a rather fine department store where there were all kinds of beautiful items for sale. In the basement was the toy department! Each week I hoped that my mother would buy a little car for my collection – I was never disappointed.
I was fascinated with the lift which took us to the different floors in the store. It was operated by a man in a brown uniform with yellow piping. His smart livery was completed by a peaked cap and white gloves. He would ask what department we required and would press the appropriate amber button on the brass plate to his left. It would light up in a bright tortoiseshell pattern. Clothing, food, perfume, hardware, electrics, shoes, carpets and furniture- you name it- the store had it to sell. The lift transported us to such different “rooms” each with their own distinct character.
On the top floor, our last calling place, was the restaurant for refreshments. I would be treated to a cake or ice cream and fizzy drink before, loaded down with bags, we caught the bus to go home.
It was so good to arrive home and to see my father who had returned from work and of course to play with my new toy car with my friends!

After “shopping” in the world for our salvation, Our Lord ascended to His Father in the heavens to prepare a place for us.

The Homecoming

John 14:2
In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.

Hear the prayers of your servants
Who from our tested faith,
Hearts grief and pity, brave
These sweet words of hope
Which cry for mercy o’er the earth filled grave.
We pray and say:
Go home, my dearest one, go home.

It’s not the place but the way we live
Δεν είναι ο τόπος αλλά ο τρόπος που ζούμε
That is our home.
το σπίτι μας
 
It’s not what we own but what we give
Δεν είναι το τι έχουμε, αλλά αυτό που δίνουμε,
That shares His home
που μοιράζεται τον οίκο Του

May Christ’s balm our memories heal
His new life promise seal
As following in the way
We rest awaiting change.
Until clothed on that sudden judgement day
We hear Christ say:
Come home, my dearest one, come home.”

Faith is to believe what you do not see; the reward of this faith is to see what you believe. 
Blessed Augustine