16. THE BEST VERSION OF MYSELF: ENCOURAGE

Thursday, March 21st

Read John 14:1-3, 27; 15:9-11; 16:33 (copied below).

Follow Jesus…

Earlier in the book of John, Jesus warns his disciples, “I am with you only a little longer…” (vs. 13:33). Then, beginning with his new commandment to love one another, he continues with words of encouragement to sustain and inspire them after his death. “Do not let your hearts be troubled… Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you… I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete… I have said this to you so that in me you may have peace…”

His words are for all of us. Jesus loves us, calls us to love one another, and then assures us of his peace, joy, and abiding presence as we carry on his work in the world.

to be the best version of myself…

I am surprised that Jesus (well aware that his life was threatened) could continue to prepare his disciples by instructing and encouraging them for the days ahead. Perhaps as he speaks, Jesus is also encouraging himself; affirming aloud that his presence will remain, that the eternal kingdom is ready for him, that love will surely reign. In his every word, there is the assurance of God’s presence, power, and purpose–beyond our daily experiences and sufferings, beyond our fears and sorrows, beyond our human understanding.

This encouragement is what helps us to love well. Love can come more readily and generously when I am peaceful, joyful, trusting in Christ. Love can withstand hurt and hardship when I sense God’s comforting presence offering so much more. Love can remain and strengthen when I abide in Christ and know Christ abides in me. Love can expand when I assure others of this incredible goodness of God in Christ.

Love remains, love abides, love lasts eternally. There is no greater encouragement than this.

for the world.

God, Infinite Love,
Thank you for these encouraging words of Jesus. May I trust his promises, feel your presence, and live in your love. May I become a source of encouragement for someone who needs to know they are beloved, too. Thank you that Jesus’ words are true–for him, and for all of us.

Our reading for Sunday (24th) is Matthew 21:6-13.

Photo of the dawn by Karen.

~~~~~

John 14:1-3, 27

Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, so that where I am, there you may be also. 

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid. 

John 15:9-11

As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.

John 16:33

I have said this to you so that in me you may have peace. In the world you face persecution, but take courage: I have conquered the world!”