Read John 14:1-4. Circle the words that stand out to you. What is the Lord saying to you?
1 “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. 2 My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. 4 You know the way to the place where I am going.”
Reflections on the Word.
When we bid our dear friends good-bye, we often say “Come back soon!” In response, our friends wave good-bye back, and say, “See you soon!”
It was nearly 55 years ago since I was hanging out with my good friends in high school. While life has taken us to various parts of the country and even the world, whenever God allows our paths to cross, we try to meet up and reconnect with each other. On one unexpected occasion, in the corner of my eye, I just happened to see some of them. Excitedly, we began sharing life with other and reminiscing on the past, it seemed that time was frozen with our thoughts taking us back to yesteryears. Although major life events, like children or even grandchildren have taken place between our last connection, I still think of them when I last saw them. We just pick up the conversations where we last left-off as if there were no intervening years.
After His ascension, the disciples were looking forward to seeing Jesus again and for His return. For us, while we have never seen Jesus physically, we look forward to seeing Him face to face. The promise made by Jesus for them and for us still stands today and tomorrow. He is coming back. That’s His promise to us.
Jesus said this, “My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”
Have you ever stopped and wondered what you will do or say when you finally see Jesus face to face for the first time? Will you run up to Him, or will you bow down before Him? Will you be filled with excitement and joy, or will you be filled with sadness and regret?
I also wonder what Jesus’ first words will to be us. I don’t believe it will be, “Thou good and faithful servant.” We are children of the Father, a brother or sister to Jesus. We belong in the family of God. What do we say and do when a beloved family member comes to our home? For me, it’s something like this, “Welcome, (insert family member’s name),” and I give them a big hug.
Regardless of our station in life, we are foremost a member of God’s family. He waits for us with open arms and ready to welcome us home. Let us continue set our eyes on Him and turn to Him in prayer, so we will be found running to Him when we finally see Him face to face.
In the meantime, when our family members come home or visit us, let’s give them the warmest welcome we can give in Jesus’ name. They are our fathers and mothers, brother and sisters, and sons and daughters who have come home to be with us. Let us be like our Heavenly Father who will gladly welcomes each of us home.
-Kingston