Our Scripture meditation is based on John 16:33, a verse from next week’s Gospel lesson.
[33] (Jesus said) I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
Skillful medical doctors understand when they need to gently break bad news to patients. They also know when patients need unfiltered truth. In John chapter 16 Jesus is days away from his Passion. As the Great Physician, Jesus sensed it was time to be direct with the disciples.
“In this world you will have tribulation,” says our Lord. While especially appropriate for his disciples at that moment, Jesus spoke those words for all of God’s people. At times we struggle with tribulations. We make trials worse by blaming God for allowing us to suffer, even though our Lord never promised to prevent all uncomfortable situations. As stress mounts during times of tribulation, sometimes we lash out at family or friends, coworkers or fellow students.
By being so direct about tribulation, Jesus helps us start to deal with the trials. We see that, in a fallen world, suffering is the norm. We also can start to see clearly how we have sinned in the tribulation.
Jesus continued addressing the disciples, “But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
First and foremost, this means Jesus knew He would suffer, die, and rise for the forgiveness of all sins. As we confess our sins committed in the face of tribulation, we know for certain we are forgiven by God the Father. We truly have the peace that Jesus speaks of in this passage.
There was more to overcoming the world for Jesus than earning the forgiveness of sins. In Matthew chapter 28 we’re told that Jesus received all authority in heaven and on earth from God the Father. This is a reassurance that our tribulations will only go as far as Jesus allows. We also take hope in a future with a new heaven and new earth, a place without the corruption of sin.
Kevin Wilson 360 