However, I am telling you nothing but the truth when I say it is profitable (good, expedient, advantageous) for you that I go away. Because if I do not go away, the Comforter (Counselor, Helper, Advocate, Intercessor, Strengthener, Standby) will not come to you [into close fellowship with you]; but if I go away, I will send Him to you [to be in close fellowship with you]. John 16:7 AMPC
Permeation is greater than proximity!
Imagine how the disciples would have heard Jesus say, "It is profitable for you that I go away."
I single this out because that is probably all they heard.
Imagine the shock, fear, grief, and possible panic they would have experienced.
You said what?
You are leaving us?
We found you (well, Jesus found them), followed you, believed in you, lived with you, and loved you, and now you're telling us you're going to leave and send someone else?
And this is profitable?
But, they and we know the rest of the story.
We often say that we know Jesus is here with us.
Well, He is closer than that!
He no longer lives beside us; He lives within us.
For His Kingdom is within us.
And this is the secret: Christ lives in you! This gives you assurance of sharing his glory. Colossians 1:27
His life is more than close; He lives from the inside out!
In what ways have you thought it would be easier to have physically walked with Jesus?
How have you seen the power and presence of Jesus working through you in easy times and challenging trials?
Lord, Your ways are SO much better than our ways. We desire more revelation of Your power working through us to love those around us. Amen