Will Willimon tells the story of a friend who, at mid-life, decided that he wanted to learn how to fly. Willimon remembers, "He felt growing anxiety in himself as he contemplated that day when he would wave good-bye to his flight instructor and take the plane up by himself." But when that day came his friend said, "My instructor had taught me so consistently, so repeatedly, so reassuringly, I just knew what I had to do. I could almost hear his voice, as if he were right there in the cockpit with me." Willimon says, "In a way, I think that's just how Jesus, the teacher, speaks to us today." In John 14:23-29, Jesus reminds the disciples and us that a good teacher, the Advocate, goes with us. Listen as Willimon reminds us that we are never alone in this world. [Manuscript available for download below.]

This sermon is from A Sermon for Every Sunday, a series of lectionary-based video sermons designed for use in worship, Bible study, small groups, Sunday school classes or for individual use.

For more sermon preparation help, check out Pulpit Resource, Will Willimon's weekly lectionary-based sermon resource, available online and through a print subscription.