In Jesus’ day his followers were devastated when he was crucified. In fear and astonishment they ran away and scattered. When Jesus returns 3 days later, it was sheer relief for his disciples after what looked and felt like agonizing defeat and much to their delight they gather, spending time with Jesus as he continues teaching and reassuring them. Before he at last departs he gives them the Great Commission, commanding to go and make disciples of all nations, and promises the Holy Spirit still to come. Now they’re experiencing the stark reality that he’ll be gone again. He must go to be with his Father. And so it is when Jesus says to them all.
“Peace be with you.” (John 20)
In 21st century North America, notwithstanding the horrors and death toll of 9/11, many of us born after 1960 have led lives mostly shielded from the terror of ravages of war and brutal dictatorship, or from food deprivation. The Great Recession was not the Great Depression and overall Covid-19 hasn’t hit our age group as hard as it has for those born earlier. Presently, with numerous world issues going on simultaneously, the trickle-down’s ugly head is rearing itself anywhere from Little League sports to the mirage of an insular community. We’re finding there’s simply no place to run.
For those following Jesus today, his words take on greater meaning.
“…Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”(John 14:27)
The legacy of Adam and Eve’s rebellion against God will continue to rage on, but just as God promised the Israelites who loved him and kept his commandments that He would show them love for a thousand generations (Exodus 20), in Jesus, his disciples are given a priceless and necessary gift of peace needed to carry on.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. (John 16:33.)
We need his help.
Teach me your way, LORD, that I may rely on your faithfulness; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name. (Ps 86:11)
Blue Fjord Devotionals 