Dear Church Family,
During the Passion Week I have been reading through the four gospel accounts of Jesus’ last week up to his glorious resurrection. It is an intense journey. But chapters 14-16 of John’s gospel have jumped out at me during this unique time in our history: After Judas the betrayer leaves the covenant meal, Jesus begins prepares disciples for what is to come. He starts with the words, “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.” (John 14:1) He then tells them where he is going, the Way to get there, how he will not leave them and how he will send them a Helper. He warns them that times will be hard but to bear fruit and to abide in him. (15:1-4) He closes his instructions with the words, “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.” (John 16:33) Then Jesus prays for his disciples and all those who will believe their message…that’s US, folks!! On his last night Jesus prayed that we may all be one with each other, and one with the Father and the Son so that the world may believe that Jesus was sent by God! Friends, in this time of personal distance, division and uncertainty, Jesus has given us all we need to make it through: “Let not your hears be troubled:” The cause, cure, and duration of this pandemic should not to cause us worry or fear. “Believe in God; believe also in me:” If we believe Jesus for our salvation, can’t we also trust him with the events of today? “In the world you will have tribulation: But take heart; I have overcome the world:” Read the last chapter. God wins! Let’s claim that victory today! Father, May we actively wait-out this trying season by serving each other and trusting in you. May we remain united with each other and united with You, so the world may believe that Jesus is the Way, the Truth and The Life! In the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen. Helen Magana