John 15 & 16
These are both precious and important chapters as they reveal some of Jesus’ final conversations with His disciples prior to his trial and crucifiction. In them I hear both Jesus love for His friends and also the criticalness of his mission and message. Knowing that He and they were about to go through suffering and persecution Jesus wants to encourage them, challenge them, warn them and comfort them. John 16:7 (CEV) says, “…But I tell you that I am going to do what is best for you…” What is best for us is not easy or comfortable in the short-medium term…but then one day we will know Joy and Peace in all their fullness.
John’s gospel is not just a story about 2000 years ago it is also a story about today, as followers of Jesus around the world face challenges and persecution. The words of Jesus echo through the centuries to today in all places where people are sharing the good news of Jesus – “…stay joined to me and I will stay joined to you…ask our Father for anything in my name and you shall receive…If the teacher suffers then so won’t the students…” These words are God’s words still for today as God’s Holy Spirit enlivens them in us as we prayerfully read them and let them speak to us. [Prayer - LORD send your Spirit to speak the truth to me and help me stay joined to Jesus together as part of your church - your vine. Amen]
