Today's Reflections
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Jn 16:29-33
29[The] disciples said [to Jesus], “Now you are talking plainly, and not in any figure of speech. 30Now we realize that you know everything and that you do not need to have anyone question you. Because of this we believe that you came from God.” 31Jesus answered them, “Do you believe now? 32Behold, the hour is coming and has arrived when each of you will be scattered to his own home and you will leave me alone. But I am not alone, because the Father is with me. 33I have told you this so that you might have peace in me. In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.”
Reflection:
You will leave me alone. Jesus utters this prophecy not out of bitterness or frustration. Even though they will abandon him, it will not diminish his confidence in them. Jesus still accepts, believes, and loves them.
Jesus means to encourage and strengthen his disciples for the coming trials. He wants them to remember that when his hour comes, he will not be left alone; the Father will be with him.
And Jesus will do the same for the disciples. In their forthcoming trials and sufferings, they should be aware that he will be with them. He will accompany them in surmounting those tribulations. Jesus assures them that they will be victorious over the powers of sin and evil. They will be like him who has conquered the world.
We have many concerns and worries. We may be afraid to venture into the world to spread the gospel. We hesitate to take risks for the sake of God’s kingdom. We are afraid to face the challenges of a renewed life. We are ashamed to stand up for Jesus. We are afraid to sacrifice our comforts or lose the luxuries we enjoy in life.
Let us remember the reassuring words of Jesus: “In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.” Jesus is always with us and for us. That is the only assurance we need.
Recall the good things you have done for Jesus.What more will you do for Jesus?
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