NOTES for Joh 16:29-33
This is not the first time the Lord speaks to us about peace. This wonderful word runs through the whole Gospel: when forgiving sins or healing, Jesus lets a person go “in peace” (see, for example, Luke 8:48); Simeon the God-receiver also speaks of peace (see Luke 2:29) as he takes leave of life. Most important, however, is Jesus’ appeal to us: “Be at peace with one another” (Mark 9:50). Peace is the most important thing in our lives, both peace among people and peace of heart. The Apostle Paul’s words remind us of the same thing: “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which you were also called” (Col 3:15). Yes, the Lord calls us to this peace, which helps us live where we are and colors with joy everything God gives us. In His conversation with the disciples, He speaks the terrible words about their betrayal precisely so that they may have peace in Him (see John 16:33). Unlike the way we are accustomed to experience such situations, He calls them to peace of heart even after the betrayal itself: to get up and move on, continuing to be in fellowship with Him.