by Desiree Bustamante

Even in suffering, encourage others as Christ did.

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking this SoundCloud link.

“For God chose to save us through our Lord Jesus Christ, not to pour out his anger on us. Christ died for us so that, whether we are dead or alive when he returns, we can live with him forever. So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.”
1 Thessalonians 5: 9-11 New Living Translation

On this day of Holy Week, Jesus gathered His disciples together for one last meal. He explained once again that He was about to fulfill His ultimate purpose, to die for mankind’s redemption. Even though they had heard these words before, the disciples were very disturbed. They swore they would defend Him so He wouldn’t be arrested. They protested when Jesus said they would desert Him. They were fearful and confused.

Like the disciples, we may not be able to see or understand our entire story yet. We can’t figure out how it all fits together or how it could possibly turn out for the best. But God promises it always will.

Jesus knew the humiliation and agony He was about to experience, yet He knew this was a difficult time for His disciples. Even though he faced his own death, His words and prayers that night would offer restoration, hope and forgiveness to them and to all future generations of believers. Even as He suffered, He shared words of hope and comfort.

As we are uplifted, God also asks us to reassure others who are fearful and discouraged. You may think you are too overwhelmed or sad to be an encouragement to someone. Not true! Christ often uses people at their most vulnerable times to encourage others. And as you reassure those in need, you may find that you are encouraged by the same words of Christ you share with others.

Through Christ’s sacrifice, you are free to boldly go and reflect His love through encouraging others to know and love Him.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado