Finding Home
As missionaries we’ve known those repeated airport moments when we have experienced the pain of separation from those we love…parents, siblings, children and friends. In parting moments, reassuring words of when we will see each other again, where we will be, or how we will stay in touch seek to manage the loss of separation. We are created to belong, so separation can be difficult.
What strikes me from this chapter is the effort Jesus goes to in addressing the personal fears the disciples were facing. The disciples had just witnessed the rejection and threat of the Jewish leaders toward Jesus. But now, on this special evening of farewells, Jesus spoke of betrayal from within the group and His leaving them. Imagine how upsetting this would have been. We know the story well, but this was startling, troubling, and world-shattering news to hear. How their world would change! Where? How? Why? The chapter is filled with the troubling questions of Peter, Philip, Thomas, and Judas as they seek to make sense of this news. Jesus seeks to help their fears of being separated and living life without Him, as they had grown used to him as their friend, mentor, leader, and God. He reassures them by addressing their troubled hearts.
First He talked of His plans for their future together in heaven. Jesus was returning home. He knew the dwelling places of His father’s home and assured them He would be preparing a place for them. As if it would not be enough to be with Jesus, He gives them images of a home they can eternally share together. This affirms the significance of a place to call home where we belong and share life. They would have a future together and He would return to take them there. What hope and comfort this news must have brought them. Yet they still seemed to be unsure about how they would get to Him. Jesus reassures Thomas that they will be able to reach him. Knowing him was all that was needed to mapping the way to him.
The next reassurance Jesus gives is truly enlightening news. Our familiarity with the Holy Spirit keeps us from sensing the wonder of His unique role. Jesus promised to send in His place His Spirit to be with them. In a sense, He would come to them or still be with them through the Spirit. He would not just abandon them and leave them as orphans. Jesus mentions that though the Spirit had already been with them, He would now dwell in them. Imagine that: Jesus’ presence through the Spirit of God in them. He mentioned His role as Counselor, and One who helps us understand what God is saying to us.
To top it off, Jesus goes on to describe a truly incredible reality. Not only does He plan to set up home in heaven, and have the Spirit set up home in us, He describes the amazing reality that both Jesus and the Father make their home with us. As an adolescent, I remember reading that small Nav booklet My heart, Christ’s home and being warmed and intrigued. How could a transcendent God be so immanent and present with me? How could He want to reside in me or with me? God has moved in with us. He has set up residency in my heart. In other words, we are never alone, never completely separated. And since finding a sense of home in the ever changing reality of living across cultures is not always possible, it is good to know there is a sense of home with God right in my own heart.
Assurance of His presence in a permanent home within brings peace. It calms our troubled hearts. Yet how often do we feel troubled, alone, “homeless”, orphaned, or on our own? What personal fears are you experiencing today, lurking in the background of your mind? Who are you missing? What difference does it make to remember that you have a resident counselor, friend, truth guide, helper, and savior right in the family room of your heart? Go find Him. Sit down with Him. Talk with Him. Enjoy His presence. Share your troubles. Find peace. Find home. He has not left us as orphans.
Jim
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