When we reach the “age of maturity”, many of us leave our parents’ homes and hometowns to start a new life in a different place. For some, this move is permanent, vowing never to go back home, while for others, they might visit their families at home from time to time. Difficult circumstances might force others, at times, to go back home. There are only two times in scripture when Jesus returns
to his hometown. The reasons for his return are not mentioned. We, however, can imagine what might have led to his return home.
During his stay in Paris, St. Ignatius of Loyola began to experience constant recurring stomach pains and fever. The doctors told him that being in his homeland would benefit him greatly, and breathing in the native air would help him. In 1535, upon the advice of his doctors and companions, St. Ignatius went
back to his home in the hope that his health would improve. He had last been in his hometown in 1522. Though a sick man, St. Ignatius, like Jesus, arrived back and started working: he ministered to the poor and ill, preached and brought many reforms in the town.
We go back home expecting to see many changes, improvements especially. We often remark, “Everything and everyone is different.” I believe we look outward at all the changes we
might see and perhaps forget to look inwardly - into ourselves - and recognise that we have changed as well; we have matured. We discover that we are not the same people we were when we left home. Going home should never be viewed as regression but rather a return; this could be important for our identity.
Spend a few moments reflecting on your life. Where might the Lord be inviting you to return to?
Reflections by Morongoa Selepe
