Jesus had just warned his disciples of the terrible things to come. “They will put you out of the synagogue; in fact, the time is coming when anyone who kills you will think they are offering a service to God. They will do such things because they have not known the Father or me.” (John 16:2-3) His words would have special meaning to them because they all faced persecution after Jesus ascended, and all but John were put to death because of their faith. (John lived the latter years of his life exiled on the island of Patmos.)
Terrible things are still happening, as we all witnessed recently in Parkland, Florida, and, if we have kept our ears open, have heard on the news almost on a daily basis since we were old enough to understand such things. While there is much good in the world, it has always been full of trouble—wars, murders, torture, abuse, kidnappings, horrendous auto accidents, plane crashes, deadly fires, earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, tornadoes, avalanches, terminal diseases, divorce, infertility, and injustice.
While we all hope and long for untroubled lives, there is no doubt trouble will visit us. Jesus said so. Yet, He also gives us hope, something onto which to cling: “Take heart! I have overcome the world.” No matter what we encounter in our lives, Jesus is stronger. Since He has overcome the world, He can help us overcome whatever troubles we face.
Today, what trouble are you facing? Whatever it is, take heart! Jesus can help you overcome it.
© Jim Musser 2018
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