Today’s verses highlight the promise of the continuing presence
of God and Christ within the Christian community.
Verse 18 reflects Jesus’ speaking to the feelings of loneliness in
the disciples. First, he reassures them that they will not be left
alone or orphaned, a term that conjures up various meanings. I
envision an overwhelming aloneness or desolation, the feeling
that probably resides in the heart of the disciples at this time.
Second, Jesus tells them, “I am coming to you”—meaning that
the Advocate will provide the same support and sustenance they
have known during his life among them.

Jesus goes on in verses 19-21 to make a strong statement
about his future and an even stronger statement about the challenge
ahead for all disciples. “In a little while” he will leave
them through death, but “on that day” following his resurrection,
they will know that he lives again in the Father.

The challenge for Christians is that believing requires more
than mental action. Belief encompasses more than knowing
rules or commandments—it integrates knowledge and obedience
into a way of life. An effective made-up word for this kind
of obedience is followship. Disciples live in service and obedience
to the Son whose commands come from God. The verse
goes on to indicate that not only will Jesus love such disciples,
but he will also reveal himself to them.

I often fail to integrate knowledge and obedience. Sometimes
I take the quickest or the least painful way rather than the
way of challenge. I will busy myself in the kitchen rather than
sit and visit with the homeless persons I’ve volunteered to feed.
Or I might pretend not to see a friend who is visibly upset. From
this time forward, I shall accept this challenge gladly.