Have you ever wondered where Jesus went when he left his followers on the mountain that day? Luke tells us in Acts 1 about Jesus’ ascension. In his last in-person appearance, Jesus was “taken up into a cloud while they were watching, and they could no longer see him.” (Acts 1:9) Surely the disciples must have wondered where he went!
Jesus had prepared them, and these verses from John 14:1-3 tell us where Jesus might have gone.
“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.”
Jesus has gone ahead to get things ready for us. How does that make you feel? When we enter into our forever home with Jesus, he wants it to be perfect. Jesus says there will be “enough room” for all of us who love and trust in Jesus. That’s the only requirement – to love and trust in Jesus.
The Christmas message many miss has us focusing more on an infant king, not our Redeemer King. Christmas messages that seem to fill the airwaves deal with Santa, chestnuts, reindeer, and lots of snow. This Advent reflection from John’s gospel points toward our risen Lord and Savior and his intention for our futures. Remember Advent gets us ready for both Jesus’ first and second coming.
This time of year is so much more than just tinsel on the tree or hay in an empty nativity manger. Jesus’ great purpose was to come into the world to rescue us. Our future home was secured that night in the stable because Jesus came. We’ll get to see that glorious new home when Jesus returns to take us with him.
As believers who trust in Jesus, this Advent time of year allows us to embrace our Lord and Savior on multiple levels. Looking forward to the fulfillment of Jesus’ promises makes celebrating his incarnation all the more precious. The miracle birth continues to make a difference for those who trust in Jesus.
As you reflect on this text today, be comforted by Jesus’ words. “Don’t let your hearts be troubled.” We do that by trusting in Jesus. He didn’t want us to be concerned or worried about what is to come. Jesus won’t forget us. He said he’d come back when everything was “ready.” The time is not right yet. Continue trusting, and that day will arrive at just the perfect time.
Let’s pray.
Lord Jesus, help me to trust you and fully rely on your power alone. Forgive me for wanting to be in control all the time. Your ways are so much better than mine. Thank you for sending your peace amidst the storms and struggles in life. Prepare my heart to fully embrace your incarnation as we celebrate your first coming. May I cherish your presence and create many moments of worship. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
