Farewell

When Jesus was preparing to leave this world to return to the Father, he was also preparing his disciples for life without his physical presence with them. In this preparation he gave them several pieces of advice, which through the scriptures is advice to us as well.

First, stay connected with Jesus, the Word of God, and with each other. Jesus would be present to them in the Spirit and support them through sufferings and difficulties. Their connection with each other, illustrated through the story of the vine and branches, would be a source of mutual support.

Secondly, Jesus said that if they stay connected with him, their lives would be fruitful for God’s reign. In fact, in the story of the vine and branches, Jesus tells us five times to be fruitful by remaining in him.

Thirdly, we are called to participate in God’s glory, the glory of resurrected life. Jesus knows that there are trials and suffering in living a life of love. It’s not always easy, but we are called to know the true God and to give glory to God by how we live, even through the difficulties and challenges of life. We have the promised Spirit of God and the community of faith to be our strength.

“My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit and become my disciples. As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love.” (John 15:8-9)