What powerful words Jesus is sharing with his disciples. He is not sugar coating this at all. They can consider themselves warned. The world will not be kind to them. People will not listen. They can expect persecution. This message is not just for those closest to him that day. It is for us, too. The world is still a dangerous place, especially for followers of Jesus.
Is it my imagination, or do other world religions get a “bye” when they want to do something or proclaim some message? But, when we, Christians, try to do something or profess our faith publically, we are ridiculed, persecuted, or worse. Times haven’t changed much.
I also know people who have been disillusioned by the church. You probably know some folks like that, too. They profess to know and love God, but they can’t stand to surround themselves with other believers who, as they see it, only act holy one day a week, and for an hour or two at best.
It is a sad thing that our churches are full of people who believe all they have to do is show up for a church service on Sunday morning and they are good to go. It’s like saying that if I spend time in my garage, I’ll become a car. At least when we attend a church, God can work and stir in our hearts to transform us. That kind of stirring can happen while sitting on the couch during quiet time, too.
But for those who don’t know Jesus, I feel sorry for what they are missing. It is our job to be sure they aren’t left in the dark. If people choose to “hate” Jesus and/or his Father, that is their choice. I can’t imagine why. I can understand why people would “hate” the way some followers behave, but it’s not Jesus’ fault. To hate Jesus shows a lack of understanding.
To know we have been chosen and set aside should give us a new passion and excitement. It might be a little scary to be separated from the world, at first. Let it sink in that the world is temporary. We only have so many days to live here. But eternity is much longer and to have that inheritance, we must have a relationship with Jesus to claim it. It’s free for those of us who want it.
Jesus promises us again that he will send an advocate. Interesting, I just heard that word used in a business call I was part of today. An advocate watches out and supports. In the case of the Holy Spirit, it will also impart truth to us and help us discern right from wrong. It is so much more than our “conscience.” That’s only part of what the advocate, the encourager, the comforter does for us. What a promise. It’s a gift we are given and should embrace not ignore.
So, consider yourselves warned. Jesus told us these things so we would know that following him will not be a “walk in the park.” We will struggle. We will face adversity. We may be killed. Jesus wants us to recognize these things but not fear them. We need to walk boldly in our faith knowing we are never alone.
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for your words of warning. While they are not a comfort in themselves, you have promised a comforter will come to be with us. We are never alone. You have given us such a rich heritage, and I thank you. I look forward to eternity with you. May I keep my eyes focused on you and not falter. May my feet stay on the path you have laid for me. May I be strong and able to fight off the enemy with your help. Use me today for your glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
