In the late 1990’s, a nationally syndicated radio program “Delilah” became popular, attracting almost 8 million listeners each week. The host, Delilah Rene, had a soothing radio voice. On her live program, listeners could call in and share a story about their life, perhaps a challenge, romantic disappointment, major illness, or even an anniversary or accomplishment. Once finished, Delilah would often dedicate a song with the words, “I will play you a song.”

I think of Delilah almost every time I hear the gospel for this Sunday when Jesus tries to prepare his apostles for his death, resurrection, and ascension to heaven. Like Delilah’s callers, the apostles are bewildered, upset, even emotional about what Jesus says. Like Delilah’s signature “I will play you a song,” Jesus says, “Do not let your hearts be troubled.”

I doubt anyone believes that Delilah’s dedicating a song makes the person’s problem go away or become diminished. I also doubt Jesus believes saying, “Do not let your hearts be troubled” makes our grieving and suffering go away or become diminished.  Why does Jesus say this?  I believe it is important to listen to what follows.  Jesus says, “Have faith in me. In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places . . . and if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back again and take you to myself.”

I have proclaimed and preached this gospel passage more than any other at funerals for the past twenty-four years. I have chosen this passage for my own funeral.  While we try our best to be soothing and compassionate when celebrating the funeral with families and friends who are grieving, the sadness and separation of death cannot be removed. What can be removed is the fear that death will permanently end our cherished relationships. With faith in God, we can believe that a dwelling place has been prepared for us, and Jesus will take us there himself, and even better, in that eternal dwelling place we will be reunited with everyone we have ever loved.  Delilah can play you a well-chosen song, but Jesus gives you eternal Easter joy.

                                                                 Fr. Gary