Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Tormented Souls...

The Life Journal readings for today are Jeremiah 16, Jeremiah 17, Psalm 96, and  John 16.

Scripture: John 16:33 (The Message)
"I've told you all this so that trusting me, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace.  In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties.  But take heart!  I have conquered the world."

Observation:
The time is getting closer.  The disciples have just had their "Aha!" moment and finally believed that Christ was who he said he was.  Just a few more final instructions.

Application:
It was about to get tough.  They were about to scatter, just like he said they would.  In John's gospel, only a prayer stands between them and the scene in the garden where he is arrested.  I can imagine the torment in their souls.

I can also imagine the torment in the souls of those I encounter on a daily basis.  It shows on their faces through tired eyes and frown lines.  It shows in the way they walk, with their head bowed and shoulders drooping.  You can see the worry.  You can almost feel the despair.  You can see the longing for peace.  Not the psychadelic, tie-dyed peace of the '60's and '70's, but true peace.  What they are longing for is peace at their very core, even on the tough days.

This peace comes from knowing that the Christ who is offering to make them deeply at peace is the same Christ who has conquered all that would torment their soul.  "You will continue to experience difficulties, but take heart!  I have conquered the world!"

Prayer:
O God of the shaken and unsure, hear my prayer for peace in their most chaotic places.  Grant an understanding deep within them, that though things may be tough now, in all and through all, you are with them and there is hope.  Amen.

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