Amen, amen, I say to you,
you will weep and mourn, while the world rejoices;
you will grieve, but your grief will become joy.”
The world rejoices when it perceives what it thinks is the failure of Christianity. It rejoices when it sees Jesus on the cross and when it sees individual Christians suffering. The world sees this and feels confirmed in pursuing the passing pleasures which it affords. It sees this and feels let off the hook from any real change. But the world needs to see the cross in the context of the resurrection. It needs to see beyond itself to lasting hope. We need to see beyond our own suffering to eternity.
Paul began to occupy himself totally with preaching the word,
testifying to the Jews that the Christ was Jesus.
The world hears and tries to cling to its old ways and ideas.
they opposed him and reviled him
We ourselves often oppose and revile the idea that because of Jesus suffering can now lead to resurrection and glory. We are invested in the passing things of the world just as they are. It is no surprise that the world has trouble with the Good News. But there is hope for us and for them.
Jesus knew that they wanted to ask him
He knows how difficult it is for us to accept. He knows the questions we have. The disciples discuss these questions with one another but the answers ultimately have to come from God's revelation. The world seeks answers within itself that can only come from God. But he is patient with us even when we don't go to him first for the answer. His heart is still to reveal himself and make known the Good News.
The Lord has revealed to the nations his saving power.
He does not simply reveal power. He reveals saving power. This is power which has its source in love. And he continues revealing himself until all nations come to know his saving power and join together in his praise.
All the ends of the earth have seen
the salvation by our God.
Sing joyfully to the LORD, all you lands;
break into song; sing praise.
All the Ends of the Earth by Bob Dufford.
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