My mother died several years ago. Since then, I have had countless times when I wish I could share something with her – some good news, significant accomplishment, fun moment, or beautiful sight. Each time, I am touched with a unique kind of loneliness. I miss her!
Death is a terrible, unnatural, seemingly final event. It runs counter to everything we seek in life. Perhaps the single most difficult part of death is that it causes separation that not even our most powerful technologies can overcome. We lose connection to those about whom we care. We cannot reconcile with those with whom we differed. The gulf is just too wide.
As Jesus considered his own impending death at the Last Supper, He began to prepare his beloved disciples for what was to come. “Don’t let your hearts be troubled” (v. 1). How could that be? He was everything to them, and all that they knew about death told them the separation was final. They were to be left alone, leaderless and without the most tangible presentation of love they had ever known. Of course their hearts would be troubled!
In the unprecedented events of the last two pandemic-ridden years, many of us have been in a similar state. Kept isolated from others by lockdowns and fear of infection, many of us have been left alone in a new and unpleasant way. Some of us have lost loved ones to the dreadful disease. I have spoken with several counselors who tell me that the after-affects of the pandemic will be long-lasting, especially in terms of loneliness and depression.
In this passage, Jesus tells his disciples (and us) in several clear ways that we are not to be left alone. Jesus’ death would not be the final word. There is far more to the story. He begins by giving us hope even in death – we have a home on the other side (vs. 2-3)! But then he comforts us with an even more powerful message – He would not leave us alone. “I will give you another Advocate to be with you forever” (v. 16).
Not only will this Advocate be with us, but also be very active in our lives! He will teach us, remind us of Jesus’ words (v. 26), and will give us peace – transcending peace (v. 27). That’s why their hearts and ours should not be troubled! Because death is not a final separation, but only a thin veil, and the Holy Spirit comforts us with perfect peace in the meantime.
Do you feel alone or troubled today? What are you missing and how might your lonely or troubled feelings be lessened? Read through the passage again considering yourself on Jesus’ mind and in his words. Whether you know it or not, those words are for you, too, if you follow Jesus.
Do you know someone else who is lonely or struggling with separation? Consider how you might you offer them comfort with a gentle word, reminding them of Jesus’ promises.
By faith, allow the Holy Spirit, our Advocate, to grant you His perfect peace. Rest in His presence and be comforted, as well as trusting Him to enable you to comfort others. Because, as Jesus said, you are never alone.