John 17:13 The Joy of the Lord

John 17:13 (KJV)  And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves.

For the apostles, the disciples of Christ, who followed their Lord in His earthly ministry, find the greatest joy when they witnessed His miracles, attested to His resurrection and ascension, and then experience His intercession in heaven for them.

The Lord did not leave them when He was betrayed and suffering and died on the cross. They understood the purpose of His passion. The depth of His love in His willing sacrifice for the remission of their sins.

Though persecution may come upon His disciples, though the world may hate His followers, Christ prayed for them that they would be kept from evil – John 17:15 (KJV) I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.

Let His people take comfort and rest in His care. Amen.