Mark 9:30-32
They went on from there and passed through Galilee. He did not want anyone to know this because he was teaching his disciples. He told them, “The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of men, and they will kill him. But three days after he is killed, he will rise.” But they did not understand the statement and were afraid to ask him about it.
Dear Lord Jesus,
Losing friends is always tough, and facing the loneliness that follows such a loss is hard. Though you understood what the disciples were going through, you also recognized what they needed to hear. Not only would they witness your betrayal and death, but they would also experience your resurrection.
Our lives can be filled with loneliness as our smartphones, tablets, and computers distract us from meaningful relationships with others. Disconnecting from these close relationships may seem logical since it spares us the pain of losing friends and family; however, this does not bring relief but instead leads to more suffering.
You understood what the disciples needed. They were part of your family and needed to realize that even though you were about to die, you would rise again. Your loss would bring them comfort because it meant you would bring salvation to all people, including them and us. They didn’t grasp how comfort would come from these events at the time, but later they would.
The good news is that you willingly gave up your life for everyone so that all who believe in you are brought into your family of believers. We have been adopted into your family; your love tends to all our needs, and we become part of something even greater than ourselves; we are not alone.
Strengthen our faith so we can believe in and hold onto the promise of salvation and eternal life. Let us share our hope of not being alone with someone who struggles with loneliness and nurture that person’s faith so they become a beacon of hope, enabling them to share Your love and mercy with even more people. Amen.
Written through Pastor Roger Emmons
Jesus knows what you need to hear, just as he understood the needs of his disciples. Pay attention to his words for you; he loves you and wants you to know that he has forgiven all your sins so that you can take your place among his family of believers. Do not be afraid to ask!