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Like many goodbyes, the Ascension is bittersweet. Jesus has completed his ministry on Earth. He can have a sense of accomplishment. Yet he is saying goodbye to his disciples. There were likely many positive memories of comradeship, caring and supporting each other. He reassures them they will have help in their ministry in the form of the Spirit of Truth, the Advocate, or the Holy Spirit.

Saying goodbye is often not easy. Have you ever had the experience of saying to someone who was leaving, “see you later” while knowing in your heart that you will not likely see them again? Why do we do this? It’s not easy to let go of someone or something we love, value or has meaning in our lives. Some people cope by not investing in people at all because they have been hurt or know that there will likely come a time when they will have to say goodbye.

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As Jesus introduces the spirit of Truth as part of our relationship with God. Truth is absolutely foundational for spiritual growth, not just an optional “nice‑to‑have” accessory. In Christian teaching, truth is what God uses to convert and set people free. Spiritual growth therefore depends on a willingness to hear teaching, examine one’s life, and reject self‑deception, which is why “hunger for truth” is listed as an indicator of genuine spiritual growth alongside love and hatred of sin. With these elements spiritual growth happens; without it, our growth becomes shallow, fragile, or even counterfeit.

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In today’s edition there is a lot going on in this Gospel which is typical in John’s Gospel. The Gospel starts with Jesus trying to reassure his disciples. He speaks about providing a place for them and returning to come and get them. It is obvious that Jesus is feeling a connection and is being protective of them. When people feel they belong—whether in a family, community, or spiritual group—they are more willing to be vulnerable, explore questions of meaning, and let themselves be “seen” by others and by the Divine.

It is important to examine who is Jesus for you? Is he relevant to your life? What is his personality like? Are you comfortable seeing Jesus as brother, a friend, wise mentor? I am always fascinated with the answers I get when I ask who is God for you? Some believe in God but see God as a supreme being, others a creator or judge. How we perceive God goes a long way on how we relate to our God and our spiritual development.

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