John 14

The God of All Comfort!

John 14 continues the journey of Jesus towards the cross.  What would you say in those last few hours?  What is the gift that you would want to press into the hands and the hearts of those you love? 

Just before Christmas this past year, I was privileged to see Amy Bulthuis in her last week on earth, on this side of heaven, begin to lay out jewelry and then give those items away.  She wasn’t just giving away jewelry – she was creating a memory.      

As we continue to follow Jesus by reading through the Gospel of John, I ask that you list the numbers of gifts that Jesus gives.  He gives assurance of a future with Him.  He reminds them that he will be the one who “bridges” the way from our life away from God to a life with God. 

Jesus also provides a challenge for living life.  (If you love me, keep my commands.  John 14:15)  Finally, he notes that the Father will send “the Advocate” (another name for the Holy Spirit) to lead us in truth, to be “in us” and to remind us of everything that he said. 

In times of sorrow and loss, one of the emotions that we will face is the feeling of being alone.  Jesus provides comfort to his disciples by noting the gift of one who can be with us – now and always.  The Triune God gives.  Jesus Christ gave his life.  The Father gave us the Holy Spirit.  The Holy Spirit gives us this assurance – “We Are Not Alone.” 

One of the titles given to Jesus that we particularly note at Christmas is Immanuel meaning God with us.  Christmas is tied to Easter by knowing that God is with us – even as Jesus goes to the cross for us.

Comfort, comfort now my people; speak of peace so says our God.

Comfort those who sit in darkness, mourning under sorrow’s load.

Cry out to Jerusalem of the peace that waits for them;

tell her that her sins I cover and her warfare now is over.

Written by Pastor Jul