John 14:1 “Do not let your hearts be troubled….”
As I read John 14 this morning, I was reminded of when my boys were little and we left them in the care of someone else (grandparents, a sitter, daycare, etc). We would tell them how much we loved them, that we would be back shortly, that they knew how to behave and be kind and helpful in our absence. The “pep talk” was to ease any concerns and fears, remind them we loved them deeply and would be back soon, and remind them that they knew how to act. This seems to me to be what Jesus is doing in this passage.
John 14:5 “Lord,” said Thomas, “we do not know where You are going, so how can we know the way?”
And just like my children would sometimes have a million questions, some quite silly, others serious, about “what if’s“ in our absence, many prompted by the fear of separation, the disciples are full of questions as well. But Jesus begins and ends this chapter telling them not to worry. He knows there are concerns. He knows there will be missteps and mistakes made, but He is reminding them that He loves them, that He will come back for them, that they know how to act in His absence. Thank You, Jesus.
John 14:6 Jesus answered, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”
Lord, Thank You for this day and for this message. Thank You for the reminder that You love us deeply, that Your steadfast presence is with us no matter what, that we know how to act in Your absence and we do not need to be afraid because You are with us always. Draw us closer. Amen.
John 14:27 “Peace I leave you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid.”
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.