Read
John. 16:16-33. Verse. 33 – In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.

Reflect

Six months prior to our wedding date.  My family received word that my grandfather in Holland had died of a heart attack. Three months prior to that my father had suffered his first serious heart attack. On the day that my mother watched her father being buried in Holland, I had to call her and tell her that her husband had died of a second heart attack.

On the day of my dad’s funeral, it was my mother who reminded me that one day we would all be together again because of Jesus.

When Jesus was about to submit himself to death, he tried to prepare his disciples for the grief they would experience, and to encourage them with the final victory they would witness. Jesus would defeat sin and death, rise from the grave, return to the right hand of God the Father in heaven, and ultimately overcome this fallen world.

This verse comforted my mother as she navigated through an incredibly difficult time and the next couple of years. It was comfort to me when I faced numerous challenges, including heart surgery.  I have deep peace in my heart because God controls my life and this world. Until he calls me home, I will continue to love and serve him with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. Many of us live in uncertainty in these days, but take heart, Jesus has overcome the world. His prognosis for all who love him is eternal life.

Pray

Lord, we don’t know what the future holds, but we know you hold the future. Thank you that you have overcome this world with its troubles and that we will reign with you forever. Amen.