We are experiencing increased structural and psychological homelessness in Australia. Witness the growing numbers of Australians living rough in our city centres and suburbs. Australian social commentator, Hugh Mackay also highlights increasing psychological homelessness noting that while we are ‘more connected than ever via social media … we are lonelier than ever … without a home’ (The Kindness Revolution, 2021).

In today’s Gospel, Jesus says that anybody who receives ‘my commandments and keep them are those who love me ……. we will come to them and make our home with them.’  Jesus’ ‘new’ commandment is that we love one another as he has loved us. (John 13:34).

The implication, then, is that as we respond with the love of Jesus to others, God makes a home with us. We are no longer homeless. This is unspeakable comfort for those facing an uncertain present and future.

Today, we’re invited to reflect what might this require of us? How might it inform our responses to structural and psychological homelessness.

Lord, today help me keep your commandment, and welcome your embrace.

By Deacon Paul Jensen