How can we apply "rejoice that I am going to the Father" today? Setting the Scene John 14:28 sits in the upper-room conversation just hours before the cross. The disciples are anxious at the thought of losing Jesus, yet He insists: “You heard Me say, ‘I am going away and I am coming back to you.’ If you loved Me, you would rejoice that I am going to the Father, because the Father is greater than I.” Why His Departure Is Good News • Victory secured — the cross and empty tomb prove sin and death are defeated (1 Corinthians 15:55-57). • Exaltation confirmed — He is “seated at the right hand of God” (Colossians 3:1), the place of absolute authority. • Intercession begun — “He always lives to intercede” for us (Hebrews 7:25; Romans 8:34). • Spirit sent — “It is for your benefit that I am going away… if I go, I will send Him” (John 16:7). • Home prepared — “I go and prepare a place for you” (John 14:3). • Mission launched — the ascended Lord empowers His church to take the gospel everywhere (Acts 1:9 - 11). Reasons to Rejoice Today • Jesus’ work is finished and accepted by the Father—our salvation is secure. • Every prayer reaches a sympathetic High Priest who understands our weakness (Hebrews 4:15-16). • The Holy Spirit now indwells, teaches, and comforts us daily (John 14:16-17, 26). • The throne of grace is open 24/7; mercy and help are always available (Hebrews 4:16). • Our future is certain; heaven is not a wish but a reserved inheritance (1 Peter 1:4-5). • Suffering is re-framed; present trials cannot eclipse the glory ahead (Romans 8:18). • Joy is not mood-based but rooted in an unchanging, reigning Savior (Philippians 4:4; 1 Peter 1:8). Putting Joy into Practice • Start each day by acknowledging where Jesus is right now—alive, enthroned, and for you. • Let intercession shape your praying: bring needs boldly, knowing He pleads your case. • Rely on the Spirit He sent: pause, ask for guidance, expect empowerment. • Face grief with hope: when believers die, they follow Jesus’ path to the Father (2 Corinthians 5:8). • Worship with confidence: sing and serve as citizens of heaven already (Ephesians 2:6). • Share the gospel: His reign guarantees the message will bear fruit (Matthew 28:18-20). • Fight sin from victory, not for victory; the ascended Christ already broke its power (Romans 6:11-14). • Encourage one another: remind fellow believers that the Lord is present and coming back. Quick Reminders to Carry with You • Jesus is not absent; He is exalted. • His throne is not distant; it is an invitation. • His return is not uncertain; it is scheduled. Rejoice—He has gone to the Father, and that changes everything today. |
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