Peace and Courage – Reflection on John 16:29-33
There is always more than meets the eye when Christ speaks. Deep prayer incorporating contemplation, such as within Lectio Divina, helps unwind His living words. In this passage, He plainly tells us of evil’s true intent: to scatter and separate us from God and each other so we cannot be loving brothers and sisters. To uncover the subtleties of these deceits, we must give ourselves quiet time alone with Jesus to absorb and appreciate the gifts of peace and courage. Doing so will provide what we need to deal with worldly struggles.
Jesus Discourses with His Disciples by James Tissot painting at full resolution.
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Additional Eastertide Reflections
John 16:29-33 – Scripture*
29 His disciples said, “Yes, now you are speaking plainly, not in any figure of speech! 30 Now we know that you know all things, and do not need to have anyone question you; by this we believe that you came from God.” 31 Jesus answered them, “Do you now believe? 32 The hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each one to his home, and you will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone because the Father is with me. 33 I have said this to you, so that in me you may have peace. In the world you face persecution. But take courage; I have conquered the world!”
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel and reading this Lectio Divina on John 16:29-33 Reflection – Peace and Courage.
Would you like to contribute related thoughts to these Lectio reflections on the Gospel readings? Since Lectio is not the only contemplative prayer style, others might appreciate these types of expressions in this ministry. Do you see God’s grandeur everywhere and unconditionally enjoy sharing the love of Christ that you have inside? Are you willing to be anonymous in what you would share? If so, email me.
Prayer for young families:
Lord, let the young families of our communities get to know your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite worldly distractions.
Attributions
*This site has permission to use the New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) Bible John 16 passage.
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