John 15:13-14 - "Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.  You are my friends if you do what I command you."

Jesus is preparing His disciples for His departure.  At this point, any normal man would feel a loss of hope, but not Jesus.  Jesus has hope for the future of mankind because of the men who are standing before Him.  They are beginning to understand His commandments...  They are beginning to understand God a little more...  They are no longer like slaves, but friends.

The hope Jesus gives the disciples is the same hope He gives us:  We can draw near to God.

What experience with love has drawn you closer to the heart of God?
What does it mean that Jesus would call you friend?
Is there hope for tomorrow when we hear God's commandments today?