Homecoming

~~~ Acts 20: 17-27 ~~~ Psalm 68 ~~~ John 17:1-11a ~~~

The Gospel today sounds to me like an excited Son looking forward to being home with his Father. Jesus has been away from his Father and his home for thirty three years and is eager to return.

Unlike the Prodigal Son, Jesus has done all that the Father asked of him. Jesus carried the message of the Father within everywhere he went. It was a huge sacrifice for the Father to send the Son down to earth. As we know the son paid the ultimate price for our salvation...that is he gave his life for us.

I remember when our son was living in Japan for three years it was exciting each time he was able to make the trip home. The anticipation was just as joyful as the time he spent with us. There is something special about being home in your familiar surroundings.

Jesus wants to get back to his familiar surroundings...his heavenly home.

So now the time has come for him to return to the Father; this Beloved Son in whom the Father is well pleased. I am reminded of friends who have loved ones away from home serving our country and how their homecoming brings great joy.

Jesus says, "I glorified you on earth by accomplishing the work that you gave me to do. Now glorify me, Father, with you,

with the glory that I had with you before the world began."

Jesus almost sounds homesick and anxious to return to his state of glory.

He is longing for his return to the glory he had before the world began.

When Jesus took on the human form in order to dwell with us to become one of us he had to keep his innate glory hidden from those around him.

It was a special and rare occasion when he allowed his glory to shine forth.

The Transfiguration was one such occasion...when his glory was revealed for Peter, James and John to witness.

What does 'homecoming' mean to you?

Is there something that would bring joy to your life if you were to return to it?

Is there a family relationship that needs to be reconnected?

Is there a prayer style that you have found

worthwhile in the past that you no longer practice? 

You too can have a 'homecoming'...God is here for you today because you are his.

Yes, Jesus returned to the Father, but the Holy Spirit was sent down to us in his place.

The Holy Spirit, by divine design has no need to hide his glory.