Question for Dr. Saleska

What does it really mean when Jesus says: I will be with you?  In regards to what?

Response from Dr. Saleska

When Jesus says in Matthew 28:19-20, “Go, make disciples of all nations… and lo I am with you always even unto the end of the age” and “I will never leave you or forsake you” (Heb. 13:5b), he means that throughout our entire earthly life, wherever we are and whatever we do, he will be present.  These and other similar passages are comforting promises because there are times in our lives that we may feel forsaken by everyone, including God.  This promise is to assure us that no matter the circumstances, even if “all things seem against us to drive us to despair, we know one gate is open, one ear will hear our prayer” (TLH 279 V.4). The psalmist assures us: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Ps. 46:1).  Of course, he will be forever with us in eternity.