Hi there
I pray you find joy in the reflection on today’s Holy Nougat
“I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!” John 15:11 NLT
As Jesus faced Calvary, He satisfied the need to complete the tasks he had set for himself. That included ensuring that the disciples were adequately prepared for his departure. This was one such moment. Of course, the lesson may not have the desired impact at that time. We can see how it would be comfort for them in the post-crucifixion era.
So what things did Jesus tell them? He helped them understand that Jesus was their Source and Comfort; regardless of the raging storms without and within. He also wanted them to understand that favor and success; i.e. their fruitfulness; came from Him, JESUS, not the world. This when all else failed; they should remain confident in His ability to sustain them. A Word in season for us today.
Just imagine, the ‘guru’ had been murdered by the system, and it was very probable that they (the disciples) would be next. Staying indoors was for them a matter of self preservation. At that point, Jesus‘ teachings were likely to have had added value. Can you imagine what comfort that Nougat brought them! It would have worked for me.
Now here we are, a few centuries later. The rapid spreading of Covid-19 obliged many to be indoors as a matter of self preservation. And the uncertainty, panic-fear and frustration that accompany the real and fake news were enough to steal our joy. Moreover, the aftermath of the heightened contagion has resulted in a global economic recession, the impact of which has not been calculated. This is enough to steal anyone’s joy; even if some of us remain employed.
Like the disciples; the Word of Life offers us 2020 vision. And since we know how the episode ended – with Christ raising to life; we too can find joy in these troubled times. As one songwriter penned,
‘because He lives, I can face tomorrow; because He lives, all fear is gone;
because I know He (Jesus) holds the future –
my life is worthwhile living Just (simply) because He lives’
And therein lies our hope and joy! As we abide in Him Who conquered death, we also shall LIVE! In the here and now. In the life hereafter. We Love in the face of threats and danger. We Intercede for the vulnerable, afflicted and even those who may be the source of trials. We add Value wherever we go. And we Evangelize by sharing from our overflow of God’s joy!
Got it – Loving Intercession Value-added Evangelism!
Doable?
Yes, when we abide in the Vine
In Christ’s love and grace . . .
