Beyond The Cross - John 16
Jesus was heading toward a train wreck with the Jewish leaders and the Roman government that would result in His crucifixion in a few hours. And the results would be grief and loss for His followers. In fact, He told them, "In a day or so you're not going to see me . . . You're going to be in deep mourning while the godless world throws a party. You'll be sad, very sad . . ."
However, beyond the cross was coming a day of hope and joy. No longer would they be sad and grieved and disappointed. The painful defeat and rejection that Jesus would experience at the cross would only be temporary. On the other side was coming joy. Like a woman who endures the pain of childbirth only to experience the happiness of a baby, so the disciples would endure the painful grief of Jesus' death and departure only to see on the other side was a time of lasting joy. The sadness of their dark night would be replaced by the dawning light of a new day. Jesus was giving them hope, something they would need during those 3 horrific days of His crucifixion and death.
I find myself in need of hope often. When I hear of a gunman killing 13 people in New York, I need hope. When I read of 22 year-old with inoperable brain cancer, I need hope. When I see the picture of another young black man wanted for robbery or murder or something, I need hope. And I come back to these words from Jesus in John 16 - "I've told you all this so that trusting me, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace. In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties. But take heart! I've conquered the world."
The trauma and sadness we experience in this world is temporary, just like Jesus' destined defeat was temporary. I am thankful to know that on the other side, the real side of life, is hope and joy that will be lasting.