In This World, You WIll Face Trouble ...

I was on a call this week with a group of church leaders.  And as we checked in with one another, we were sharing the “why” of our call to ministry.  So often we think about that “what” of our callings.  But knowing the “why” is so important – perhaps especially important in this time.

And I was struck at the words of another person on that call.  She simply shared the words of Jesus from John 16:33: “In this world you will have trouble.  But take heart! I have overcome the world” (NIV).  She went on to say that the “why” of her ministry was to comfort people in their trouble with this powerful word from Christ.

I just couldn’t resist sharing that word with you.  We know we will face challenges in this world.  Just this week, I’ve connected with numerous people about the challenges they are facing.  Family struggles.  Work struggles.  Struggles with illness, grief, and pain.  And time and time again, we’ve had a chance to commiserate about those struggles … and also remember that none of those challenges have the final say.  Jesus has overcome it all.  With his suffering and death – and his rising from death – Christ has conquered the suffering and struggles of this world and promised us something new beyond this life.

So take heart, dear friends in Christ. For your future is secure in Christ.  And secure in that future, may you be liberated to serve your neighbors here and now, despite your sorrow and trouble.

As always, may you be given strength for the journey!


P.S. – For those that are wondering, both Audrey and I successfully made it 13.1 miles last Saturday!  Thanks for all your encouragement.

For news and announcements, visit: https://www.wadenaimmanuel.org/announcements


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