Jesus Overcomes
John 16:25-33
By Craig Hardee
I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.
This year certainly qualifies as a year of tribulation. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced us into many situations for which we weren’t prepared
to handle.
Many, many people have been sick from the virus. Many people have died.
But Jesus overcomes.
We suffered through shortages. We’ve hunted for toilet paper and paper towels.
We’ve scrounged for sanitizer and cleaning supplies. We’ve seen empty spaces in grocery stores where our favorite foods are usually stocked.
But Jesus overcomes.
Political divisions have been rampant. People have rioted, looted and destroyed property and businesses. Accusations, both founded and unfounded have been hurled at a record pace.
But Jesus overcomes.
A record number of hurricanes have made landfall, uprooting people and property.
Fires have burned unchecked for weeks. Record rainfalls have flooded places where floods have not touched for hundreds of years.
But Jesus overcomes.
Yes, this has been a year of tribulation. But God has not left. He is still with us.
He is still on His throne. He is still in charge. In the midst of all this tribulation, we are not alone. God is with us. He is always there. God loves us and has a plan for us, even in the midst of all this tribulation.
John 16:27 assures us that God loves us. If we are loved by God, that will help us endure any tribulation the world brings. So, world, bring on the tribulation, because Jesus overcomes!
Because Jesus overcomes, we can feel peace.
Because Jesus overcomes, we can transcend the tribulations of the world.
Because Jesus overcomes, we can communicate His peace and love to a lost and dying world who so need to hear the message that Jesus overcomes.
Because Jesus overcomes, we have the ultimate hope.
Dear Lord, thank you for sending Jesus to die for our sin and arise victorious over the world so that Jesus can overcome the world.