Jesus spent much of the night before his betrayal teaching his disciples, preparing them for his imminent departure. He told them he was leaving but was not abandoning them. He would be sending the Paraclete (Holy Spirit) to them. And the Paraclete would be with them forever, making his home within them.
My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.
John 14:2-3 NIV
In this passage, Jesus assured them that he would return and bring them to where he was. And they would be together forever in the Father’s house. The separation they were getting ready to experience was only temporary.
Plenty of Room
And, lest the disciples worry about overcrowding in the Father’s house, Jesus assured them that there was plenty of room. The KJV translated rooms as mansions, leading many to believe they would live in their own personal mansion in heaven. But Jesus was not referring to the specifics of our living arrangements in the Father’s house. Only that there is plenty of room for all who come.
It is hard for me to imagine just what kind of preparation Jesus is making for our arrival. But it brings to mind the preparation we might make in our earthly dwelling when we expect honored guests to come for a visit. And even more so if it is family coming to stay. Jesus is looking forward to having his family join him in the Father’s house and is preparing it for us. It will be an amazing homecoming that we should all be eagerly looking forward to.
