Today’s scripture: John 16:29-33 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Steve Adams):
Jesus’ inspiring words that the disciples would have peace in Him mean even more when you consider the emotional turmoil that was headed their way. Jesus said they would weep and mourn — that they would be in emotional pain. Just imagine their despair in the days to come! Their Teacher and Lord would be dead, and it would seem like the end of the world.
My grandmother experienced a tremendous amount of physical pain. Among other ailments, she had osteoporosis so severe that she suffered a compression bone fracture in her back while she was simply getting out of bed one morning. Since it’s hard to move at all without moving your back, she suffered terribly for weeks; and she was already in a lot of pain prior to the break. Several years later, she made a most interesting statement. She was talking about which is worse — physical pain or mental pain. I still remember my surprise when she said she thought emotional pain is even worse than physical pain. Even though she had suffered a great amount of emotional pain in her life as well, I just couldn’t imagine her saying that, considering how much she had suffered physically.
When the disciples were headed for emotional pain, they needed comfort. As it turned out, their pain turned to joy. As Psalm 30:5b says, “Weeping may linger for the night, but joy comes in the morning.” He arose! He overcame! He conquered! And their fear and pain melted away in the light of Jesus’ glorious resurrection.
No matter how loving and peaceful our lives may be, accidents, illnesses, misunderstandings, and even death of loved ones will darken our days. But we never sorrow as those who have no hope, for we have a conqueror, the Lord Jesus Christ!
Thought for the day: When the world seems like too big of a mountain to climb, take courage! Jesus has conquered the world!
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.