Reflect
If I was John’s readers, or the disciples, I would be so confused as to what Jesus was saying.
The intentional ambiguity suggests that there may be multiple meanings. Firstly, for the disciples it meant that Christ’ sorrowful death would be met by his joyful resurrection; secondly, in the age of the Holy Spirit, grief encounter the ministering of the Holy Spirit and His word that would turn us to joy; thirdly, we may not have the physical eyes to see Christ in this age, but there will come a time where He will return in glory, and tragedy will be overcome by triumph!
This is truly our blessed hope as Christians: no matter the sorrow, it will be met with joy whether that looks like now or at the very end. We’re not downplaying the reality of some of our grief-worthy experiences, but we are being met with promise.
In the past 3-4 months, we’ve lost two loved ones (my grandpa, and Gloria’s grandma). This has brought a lot of questions in our house especially with a bright 4-year-old. As we remember and honor their lives, our hearts are filled with promise that because of their faith, we will see them again.
Apply
McKernan family, persevere till the end – there will always be light at the end of the tunnel whether that is here and now or for eternity.
Pastor Nathanael
Pray
- Pray for our childcare team, the children and their families this week. Pray for a new Director
- Pray for our Audio/Visual Director, Grant Mix.
- Pray for our Lead Team Pastor, Terry Okken and his family
- Pray for our Communications Specialist, Katrina Grey