5th Week of Easter
Do not let your hearts be troubled. (John 14:27)
“Good night, good night! Parting is such sweet sorrow.” So go Romeo’s famous lines to Juliet in Shakespeare’s play. It’s one of the most memorable farewell scenes in Western literature, made all the more poignant because their two families are bitterly opposed to one another.
Today’s Gospel is also a farewell scene, one no less dramatic, no less bittersweet. Imagine the sorrow and fear the disciples must have felt at the thought of Jesus, their teacher and best friend, leaving them—and in such a violent way. He tried to explain that he would rise again, but they still could not fully grasp his words. So he gently told them, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. . . . I will come back to you” (John 14:27, 28).
We can all relate to the struggle with fear and anxiety that the disciples felt that night. As we wait for God to answer a prayer request or intervene in a loved one’s life, we may be tempted to wonder: Where is Jesus? Has he left me? What does the future hold?
In these moments, Jesus offers us the same comforting words that he gave to the disciples: Do not let your heart be troubled. He knows exactly what we are going through and knows the glory he wants to bring us into. It may not always be easy to remember that Jesus is with us, but we can look to Scripture passages like today’s Gospel and remember that God keeps his promises to all his disciples. We can also recall God’s faithfulness to us in the past. All this can help us conclude that Jesus is with us, he is in control, and he has a good plan.
Right now, close your eyes, and talk to Jesus about whatever burdens you. Picture him telling you, “Do not let your heart be troubled. I will come to you.” You may taste “sweet sorrow” or anxiety or fear now, but as you lean into his promises, you’ll become more confident that he wants nothing more than to fill you with his peace and strength.
“Jesus, give me the grace to trust in you today.”
Acts 14:19-28
Psalm 145:10-13, 21
Daily Marriage Tip for May 16, 2017:
“Have you anything here to eat?” (Lk 24:41) Eating together is not just about food but the nourishment of each other’s company. What’s your favorite way of dining – fast food, meat and potatoes, vegetarian, restaurant, picnics, candlelit at home…? Try it tonight.