Jesus Saying Goodbye for Now- John Chapter 13

I have been at the bedside of people who were dying. In each instance, the person wanted to express what was pressing for them to share with loved ones and friends.

I have also observed how families of team members on ministry trips I have been on become emotional saying goodbye at the airport.

In Jesus’s final hours before his arrest, he wanted to spend time with his disciples to share with them encouragements and truths about himself. God the Father, and God the Holy Spirit. In a way it was similar to those on their deathbed saying parting words.

In John 13 he tells the disciples the time for his death has come.

When he was gone, Jesus said, “Now the Son of Man is glorified and God is glorified in him. If God is glorified in him, God will glorify the Son in himself, and will glorify him at once.

He let them know they were staying behind.

“My children, I will be with you only a little longer. You will look for me, and just as I told the Jews, so I tell you now: Where I am going, you cannot come.”

Notice the term of endearment- My children. That is how Jesus feels about all who believe in him.

Jesus gave a new command. A command that if followed will let others know we follow Jesus.

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

Peter wanted to know where Jesus was going. Jesus let them know not now but later they would follow him to where he is.

 “Where I am going, you cannot follow now, but you will follow later.”

It is because of the promise of Jesus returning for us that for me it is more like saying goodbye at the airport. Yes, Jesus knew he was going to die on the cross. He also knew he would defeat death through his resurrection a few days later. He will return. There is no such thing as parted forever for those who believe in Jesus. There is only see you again. Yes the parting has sorrow at the time, but the reunion in heaven will be so sweet..

Jesus will return one day. Nothing can prevent that. The only question is- are we ready?

We become ready by placing our faith in Jesus as our Savior. If you want to trust Jesus and ask his forgiveness, tell him. If you are not sure about Jesus and if he is for real. you can tell him that and ask him to show you.

Thank you for reading. God Bless.