A Word of Defiant Hope [John 14:1-14 - Easter 5A]
The Rev. Jeremiah Williamson John 14:1-14 A Word of Defiant Hope Jesus always had the right words. He always knew exactly what to say. His words caused fishermen to drop their nets and follow the kingdom of God. He calmed the raging seas with his words. He casts out evil spirits and healed the inflicted with his words. He touched hearts and changed minds; he silenced his critics and amazed the crowds: all with his perfectly chosen words. He always, always, knew exactly what to say. But not here; not in this Gospel passage. “Do not let your hearts be troubled.” It is a lovely line, poetic even. But it feels like the wrong thing to say in this instance. Because given the circumstances, troubled hearts were entirely justified. It feels like Jesus is shutting down his disciples’ genuine feelings, not giving them the space to express their emotions. Dinner had just ended. And the mood was ...