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!”

Music like scriptures have a way of speaking truth to pain, especially in the times you need it the most. Today I am thinking of The song “What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye.

Mother, mother

There's too many of you crying

Brother, brother, brother

There's far too many of you dying

You know we've got to find a way

To bring some lovin' here today, yeah

Father, father

We don't need to escalate

You see, war is not the answer

For only love can conquer hate

You know we've got to find a way

To bring some lovin' here today

Picket lines and picket signs

Don't punish me with brutality

Talk to me

So you can see

Oh, what's going on (What's going on)

No matter what part of the world we are from or what era we were born into, we are all acquainted with troubles. Times of difficulty arrive unexpectedly, often remaining indefinitely, and the sorrowful memories they produce take deep roots in the mind, sometimes even playing itself out in destructive ways. Most days, these events leave us questioning, What's Going on?

Jesus was to face the most challenging event in the history of the universe.  He was getting ready to experience the most excruciating separation from His God and Father – an agonizing disconnection, which is beyond human comprehension. Yet He was able to communicate to His confused and fearful followers, both deep comfort, and the stark reality of what laid ahead. He warned them ahead of time so that when this unimaginable event occurred they would know the truth and the truth would set them free from fear and shame.

“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!”

However dark your own life situation may be and whatever challenges you may be facing, take these words from Christ Jesus to heart - But take heart! I have overcome the world. 

Reflection:

Where do we find hope in the midst of Chaos?

Let Us Pray:

Loving Creator, Thank you for offering peace and courage in the midst of trials. Help me to take heart in the midst of my trouble by remembering your finished work. Though my troubles and trials are painful, I know that it will not separate me from your love. 

Amen. 

Blessed Love, 

Rev. O