In the passage for this Sunday Jesus contemplates his coming crucifixion (John 12:20-33). He is deeply troubled by what lies ahead but tells his disciples that everything in his life up until now has been preparing him for this moment. Accepting who we are and understanding a purpose for our lives is a basic human concern and the central theme of Easter. It is also a recurring idea in the novels of Herman Hesse (1877-1962). His central character realizes how the purpose of his life has been fulfilled in what he has done. Knulp asks God what he has achieved in his life as a vagabond. God replies, "I wanted you the way you are and no different. There is nothing you have enjoyed and suffered that I have not enjoyed and suffered with you. You were a wanderer in my name and wherever you went you brought the settled folk a little homesickness for freedom." The person who strives to play it safe dies, while the one who sacrifices his life lives - 'It's a universal law: you have to give before you get.you only get to keep what you give away' (source unknown)

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