The disciples were disturbed by the news that Jesus was leaving them, and that they could not follow him to his destination. Jesus also predicted Peter’s denial, while the latter was insisting on following him and boasting of his strong faith. Some disciples may have harbored the feeling that they might be mistaken in following Jesus, who would soon depart or even die. Jesus countered their gloom and sadness with a firm command. Rely on God fully, he is the firm foundation at all times, he is unshakeable when all else shakes. He rebukes our anxieties. Fear means unbelief. Your heavenly Father does not deceive or leave you. This is the victory that overcomes the world – your faith.
Jesus demanded the same measure of faith from his followers, with confidence and prayer, as his Father deserves. He is one with the Father. As the Father guarantees our future, so does the Son offer his assurance. In the Son the Father was present in the world. His love deserves our trust. His truth is rock-solid.
He therefore disclosed something to his disciples of what would occur after his death and ascension. With God there is a mansion greater and finer than any owned by the wealthy in cities or the countryside. God’s palace on high resembles a vast city, wide enough to house all saints everywhere at all times. Even if you now live in a tent or hut, do not be sad. In your Father’s palace are many rooms and spacious dwellings. He has prepared a home for you clean, warm and well-lit. You are bidden to dwell near your Father for ever.
God, Himself, loves believers in Christ and has prepared a place for them. When Jesus returned to heaven he surveyed these mansions and added to the preparations. But he also decided to come to us; he does not intend to be far from us. He comes back to draw his followers to himself. He loves them as a bridegroom loves his bride; so he intends to present his Church, the Bride, before his Father, not just to be introduced to his Father, but to be like Him in the celestial family. We shall ever be with him, guarded in his protection, exulting in his goodness.