What does the Bible say about Christ's absence and return?

In John 16:16-24, Jesus acknowledges the sorrow that His absence will cause to His followers but promises that this sorrow will be replaced with joy at His return. This profound truth extends beyond His resurrection, indicating that the ultimate joy will be realized at His second coming, when believers will see Him face to face. As believers endure the trials of this life, they are encouraged to look forward to His return with anticipation, as it represents the culmination of their hope and the definitive end to their sorrow.