TAKE COURAGE ... PERSEVERE!

Monday, May 21, 2007

Reading: John 16:29—33

There are times when we are overwhelmed with wonderful and holy feelings, the sun couldn’t shine brighter, God is good and we are among the first to sing his praises. There are other times when we are overwhelmed with discouragement, disappointment, everything is going wrong, we are tired and can’t seem to see the light at the end of the tunnel. The disciples of Jesus were experiencing one of the good days.

“At last you are speaking plainly without talking in veiled language,” they told Jesus. “We are convinced you know everything. There is no need for anyone to ask you questions. We do indeed believe you came from God.” They felt really good! Jesus knew it wouldn’t last. And so, he forewarned them: “An hour is coming when you will be scattered and each will go his way, leaving me quite alone. I tell you this that in me you may find peace. You will suffer in the world. But take courage! I have overcome the world.”

This conversation took place at the Last Supper. The disciples were feeling good about their companionship with Jesus, they were always going to walk by his side. Jesus, however, saw them running away when he would be taken prisoner. They would desert him when the going got tough.

Our lives will always have those good days or moments, which will be followed by terrible days or moments. We will feel close to Christ and filled with joy, then we will feel far from Christ and very sad. This happens to everyone. It is all a natural, or supernatural, part of our growing in holiness. The advice may seem old but it is still good. Hang in there! Someday, the sun will shine on you and it will never set.