December 14 - John 16:33

Hey, Northland Church. This week we're talking about peace. And there are many passages that offer us peace, but one where I think that's particularly true is Jesus' words in John 1633. He says, in this world, you will have trouble, but take heart, I have overcome the world. These are some of Jesus' final words to his disciples before going to the cross. Words meant to comfort them and to remind him that peace is found in him alone. And the same is true for us today. For a lot of people, Christmas is full of traditions and joy, but for others, it's a painful season. Maybe life feels really heavy. Maybe this is the 1st Christmas without somebody you love. Maybe you're reminded this season of broken relationships. In these words, Jesus says that we will have trouble, that the world is full of sin and brokenness, but Jesus stepped into the world not to condemn us, but to save us. This is a reminder that whatever we face today he has already overcome it. And that's why the manger holds both comfort and hope, comfort for today's struggles and hope for the victory that's already been won. When Jesus says, I have overcome the world, he's using past tense here because the battle is finished, and the victory is secured. So whatever you're facing now, know that you can lay your burdens, your sorrow, and your fears at the foot of the cross, because peace, real peace is found in Christ, a peace that surpasses all understanding. So take heart Christ has come. Christ is with us, and Christ has overcome the world.