I wonder how I would have reacted if I had been a disciple when Jesus broke the news that he was going to leave and return to the Father, but that he would return “in a little while” (John 16:16)? I’m embarrassed to admit that I probably would have made a scene. I probably would have grabbed onto Jesus’ garment hem and begged him not to leave. I would have sobbed hysterically and told him how much I would miss him in his absence, and that I couldn’t possibly live without him for any length of time. I would have pleaded with him to hurry back because my only comfort would be in looking forward to the day that I would see his face again.
Jesus came to earth to save us.
He died on the cross for our sins.
He rose from the grave that we might have eternal life.
And he promises that he will come back for his own (John 14: 28).
Sometimes we focus so much on what Christ has done and what he will do, that we miss what he is doing right now in our lives, and in the world around us. Christ is not absent until he returns. We are not “orphans.”
God promises to be with his children in the form of the Holy Spirit until He comes again. What a comfort, what peace! What an opportunity to learn!
If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him and we will come to him and make our home with him....All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. (vv. 23,25)
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