He has overcome

First Reading: Psalm: Gospel:

Acts 19:1-8 Psalm 68:2-7 John 16:29-33

John 16:33 I have said this to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."

Yes, there is and will be tribulation in the world. Jesus says that if we abide with him we can have peace, because he has overcome the world. That means that continuing to walk in his ways brings peace.  Doing what is right, forgiving others, showing mercy and compassion etc... 

Often people have regrets about things that they do.  Cheating, stealing, lying.  And often these things get people into trouble and cause them to have a life of bondage and fear rather than peace and freedom.

You don't hear of people who regret loving their neighbor, or forgiving someone, or showing kindness to someone. Also, these things don't tend to get us in trouble either.  We are then able to live a life of peace and freedom from punishment and guilt.

Jesus has overcome the world.  That means that he showed that this can be done by a man, with the help of God.

Father, help me by your Holy Spirit to abide in you.  Help me to always seek to do what is right and pleasing to you, so that I may know your peace.

Amen