May 13, 2025
A Little While - Part 2
John 16:19-20
05/13/2025
19 Jesus knew that they wanted to ask him, so he said
to them, ``Is this what you are asking yourselves,
what I meant by saying, `A little while and you
will not see me, and again a little while and you
will see me?'
20 Truly, truly, I say to you, you will weep and
lament, but the world will rejoice. You will be
sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn into joy.''
(ESV)
The disciples were confused. They were walking with Jesus
to the Garden of Gethsemane after the dinner where Jesus
instituted the Lord's Supper. Although Jesus had done and said
many things that evening, His words about leaving and returning
were the most perplexing.
Jesus knew that they wanted to ask him, so he said to
them, ``Is this what you are asking yourselves, what I
meant by saying, `A little while and you will not see
me, and again a little while and you will see me?'
Truly, truly, I say to you, you will weep and lament,
but the world will rejoice. You will be sorrowful, but
your sorrow will turn into joy.''
All of the things Jesus taught, all His prophecies, were
revealed to be true. Within a few minutes, Jesus was arrested
and taken before the High Priest, Pilate, Herod, and back to
Pilate. He bore the wood of the cross for His execution. His
followers gave Him a hasty burial, one they intended to complete
in a little while, after the Sabbath day.
The disciples wept and lamented because Jesus was dead. The
chief priests and rulers of the Temple rejoiced for the same
reason. Pilate was relieved because he had avoided another nasty
confrontation with the Jewish leaders.
This changed on the third day. Although the realization
took a while, the truth of the resurrection and the promised
coming of the Holy Spirit brought joy to the disciples.
May the presence of Christ Jesus, who comes to us today in
Word and sacrament, bring you the joy of knowing your sins are
forgiven for His sake. Amen.