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267. The Upper Room Discourse

An Overview
John chapter 14 through chapter 16
Key Verse: "I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from My Father I have made known to you."
John 15:15

 The Seder meal is almost over. There is a sense of closeness and contentment among close friends. The room is lit by small, smoky lanterns. Perhaps, since it is spring, a gentle breeze wafts in from time to time through an open window. Everyone is full from a wonderful meal and at peace from the wine. It's one of those times that no one wants to come to an end. It's a time of peace. There is no more bickering or jostling for position. If only they had known what He knew, that these were their last few hours together.

 In scripture, much attention is given to last words. The Patriarchs' last words are recorded as blessings, or curses, for the next generation. Moses issued words of encouragement to Joshua. Elijah had final words for Elisha. David had final words for his son Solomon and the leaders. I often wonder what my last words would be, if I knew that they were to be my last words on this earth. What would be the most important thing that I would want my loved ones to know? It is an interesting exercise to ponder.

 Jesus knows that He has one last evening with His disciples; one last time to give them hope and encouragement; one last hour to prepare them for the future. Imagine yourself there, listening to Jesus in the quiet room, reclining at the table, trying to remember, but probably not getting all of it and perhaps thinking, "That's okay, Jesus will say it again later."

John, the youngest, seems to have remembered the most and thus has recorded what he recalls, with the help of the Holy Spirit, for us here. Let Jesus’ last words settle on you now as they settled on the disciples then. Be more attentive than they were so that you will be better equipped and reassured. Let these words prepare you for the future. After all, you know what the disciples did not, that these are Jesus' last words before His passion. What impact does it make on you now that you know?

Hymn: "Sing Alleluia to the Lord" 

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