John 14.   In some cultures it is appropriate for someone to give gifts when they return to friends they have departed from.  In the Philippines, it is like that.  Whenever Penny and I returned from a trip to Manila or the States, our Filipino friends expected us to have a gift for them.  They called it pasalubong. 

Jesus spoke of returning to his friends – the disciples – and, by definition, us as well.  He is not content to just promise us gifts upon his return.  He does promise to prepare a place for us and bring it (the Holy City) with him when he returns.  But Jesus also gave the Helper, the Holy Spirit, to teach us and remind us of what he has taught.  He also promised answered prayer.  He has left many parting gifts.

LORD, thank you for your parting gifts, and for the promise of your return.