Jesus spoke to the disciples before his crucifixion. He shared with them his farewell message as he knew what was going to happen to him, his passion and death on the cross. The disciples had been journeying with Jesus, travelling with him, and bearing witness to his teaching and the miracles he performed. Through all of these experiences, a loving bond between Jesus and the disciples
was formed.
As with any relationship, once a bond is formed, the hope is that it deepens through more interaction and time together. Jesus, however, is bidding the disciples goodbye; this is confusing for them, as one can imagine.
Jesus responds to this confusion by speaking of the spiritual union the disciples will experience with him
and God. Jesus promises them that God will give them an advocate when Jesus leaves. He assures the disciples of their unity with the Holy Trinity. Jesus makes the same promises to us as well, that as he is in the Father, we are in him, and he is us.
Jesus reassures us, promising that the Holy Spirit will come to be our comforter and guide in his absence.
How
does this promise and reassurance from Jesus make me feel? When this Holy Spirit comes, how might I receive him?
The Lord is inviting me to prepare to receive the Holy Spirit. Am I open to receiving this invitation?
