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When we are confused or have questions, we can feel like we are in the dark, searching for the truth. This could be said about the disciples in today's passage.

When you read the accounts of Jesus and the disciples, you don't just see a wise teacher telling people how to live. You see Jesus compassionately meeting people where they are in their fears and doubts. He didn't dismiss their questions but was patient and kind. Jesus didn't leave his friends in the dark. He desired for the disciples to grasp what he had to share. He shined a light on the truth and invited them to step forward to see for themselves.

Jesus knew the grief and confusion his disciples would experience because of his crucifixion. In this passage, we see Jesus shining a light on what his sacrifice would be for. In an hour of great darkness, hope was dawning. On that promise they could cling to and their joy would be found there.

That's the God we have — one whose heart is for us and for our good. Our struggles and pain do not go unseen. Our life experiences are not meaningless or without redemption. Our God sees, our God knows, and our God promises joy despite our circumstances.

Jesus didn't say not to grieve or that we wouldn't experience great sadness or loss but promised joy in the midst of grief. Have you found this to be true in your life or in the lives of others? How has Jesus helped you find joy in dark times? What did that joy do to your faith, your endurance, or your strength?