It is better for you that I go

Departures, especially the definitive ones, are difficult to accept.

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This is the struggle of the disciples as the death of their beloved Master draws near. Jesus offers his grief stricken disciples a new perspective: his departure is not the end, but it is the beginning of another form of presence: “If I go, I will send [the Advocate] to you” (v 7).

The departure of Jesus ushers in the coming of the Holy Spirit. And the coming of the Spirit means the fulfillment of Jesus’ promise: “I am with you always, until the end of the age” (Mt 28:20). Through the Holy Spirit, the disciples will be enlightened and empowered to continue the mission of Jesus to convince the world of the emptiness of sin and the need to turn towards God.