John 14:3 says, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to myself; that where I am, there you may be also.” Jesus said this the same night shortly before Judas betrayed him. With only the disciples present, he told them he would “prepare a place for you,” a guaranteed home in heaven. Then he said, “I will come again,” the first mention of this. He followed with the reason: to “receive you to myself, that where I am, there you may be also.” Forever in his presence! They needed to hear this because of what was coming: Jesus’ arrest, beating, trial and death. This is still great news today for God’s people before and during hard times. It is not about escaping from but for persevering through hardships. Let the permanence of his promise give us confidence today whatever we face.