Over the past few days, we have discussed that, as pilgrims on this earthly journey, we must first recognize where we currently stand and gain clarity about our final destination. Today, let us reflect on the journey in between.

As we embrace this Jubilee with the theme “Pilgrims of Hope,” it is helpful to understand what a pilgrimage truly is in order to fully appreciate the meaning of being “pilgrims of hope.” When we think of a pilgrimage, we typically envision a devotional journey to a sacred place, often associated with a saint.

The word “pilgrim” comes from the Latin word “peregrinus”, meaning a foreigner, someone on a journey, or a temporary resident. It emphasizes the state of “living abroad.”

By connecting our understanding of pilgrimage with the definition of a pilgrim, it becomes clear that when we refer to life on earth as an “earthly pilgrimage,” we acknowledge that we are merely temporary residents here, journeying toward the ultimate sacred place—our heavenly home. This perspective helps us orient our lives according to God’s will and adopt the right outlook on our earthly existence. Such a perspective is crucial in navigating the maze of life.

Pope Leo XIII urged the faithful “to raise their thoughts, now busied with worldly matters, to the contemplation of heavenly things.” This highlights the importance of shifting our focus from earthly concerns to eternal realities—the true essence of pilgrimage.

Let us delve deeper into the meaning of pilgrimage to gain further insight into what our earthly life should be like, thereby making our journey home to the Father’s house—our heavenly home—easier.

The teachings of the Church emphasize that pilgrimage is a time of conversion and renewal. A pilgrimage signifies not just a journey but a purposeful movement toward a destination and a higher goal. When we adopt the mindset of a pilgrimage, our life on earth becomes a spiritual journey—one that reflects the human search for purpose and a divine encounter.

Genuine and intimate encounters with our Lord Jesus along our earthly pilgrimage not only help us nurture an ever-deepening relationship with God but also prepare us, as pilgrims, to remain steadfast on the path toward our ultimate encounter with God the Father. Our relationship with Jesus lifts our gaze from earthly attachments to the anticipation of eternal and everlasting joy in heaven.

The theme “Pilgrims of Hope” rightly connects us with Jesus, our Lord, who is the source of salvation and hope for all believers.

Reflection

Is your mind primarily occupied with worldly affairs, or do you make space to elevate your thoughts to heavenly matters?

Do you find your life, your pilgrimage on earth, stagnant or constantly renewing? Aimless or purposeful?

After today's reflection, do you have any new insights into the meaning and direction of your earthly life? What changes do you desire?

Today’s Prayer

Merciful Abba Father, thank You for giving me the opportunity today to pause and reflect on the meaning of my earthly life. You have granted me the chance to examine where my focus truly lies, whether it is directed toward You or merely fixed on the world. Please forgive me for not slowing down in life, for not setting aside worldly matters to contemplate heavenly things, and for failing to seek an encounter with You.

Thank You for allowing me to see my true identity and the real purpose of my earthly journey. Thank You for helping me recalibrate the navigation system of my life so that my hope may be firmly anchored in my Lord Jesus.

Holy Spirit, please guide me to live my earthly life well from this day forward and to prepare myself well to enter into Your eternal kingdom.

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The following is the “Farmer of Hearts: Finding Hope in God’s Kingdom” team, including FLL staff and volunteers.
Please kindly pray for them. May God protect them and sustain their physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

Writer: Paul Yeung
Project Manager: Michael Lam, Rosa Tse
Editors: Bonny Chan, Rosa Tse
English Editors: Bonny Chan, Paul Yeung
Mandarin Editor: Anthony X.
Cantonese Narrator: Margaret Woo
English Narrator: J. Johnson
Mandarin Narrator: C. Zhou
Audio Editors: Cyan Cheung, Sander Lee, Margaret Woo
YouTube Editors: Arnold Chan, Cyan Cheung, Sander Lee
Graphics: Francis Lai, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse
Website: Patricia Young, Angela Wong
Podcast: Angela Wong
Social Media: Yollie Leung, Carmen Tsang, Rosa Tse

Theme Music:

"3 MINUTES RELAXATION MUSIC | 4K Scenic View of Tuscany" by Introvert Pianist https://www.youtube.com/@introvertpianist

“Sea of Memory” by Aakash Gandhi https://www.youtube.com/@88keystoeuphoria