I came from the Father and I go to the Father

Jesus' disciples were exuberant when they heard him speak plainly. They had a clear picture in their minds, and were glad. Yet soon they would be scattered, they would all forsake him and flee. Yet he in mercy would return to them on Easter. Then their joy became full, as he promised. This is his way with his people: they see clearly, then they enter challenges and troubles; but then joy comes in the morning. So when the challenges come, we must pray, and he hears us. All this is guaranteed by his resurrection. And finally we shall enter with him into the eternal joy of heaven, of which our attendance at his feast is a foretaste. Sermon for  Rogate.