Longing for That Day

August 15, 2023 ∙ by rbacchus ∙ in New Jersey Conference, Editorials

Editorial by Jorge Aguero

As I read Jesus’ words in John 14:1, “Let not your heart be troubled”(NKJV), I cannot stop thinking about my 2-year-old granddaughter, Catalina, who was recently diagnosed with leukemia. How can I accept Jesus’ words when we—humankind—become so overwhelmed by problems that are many times beyond our control?

Perhaps, you may be facing an illness in your family, the loss of a job, a family conflict, or a child in a problematic spiritual or moral situation. Maybe at work you have a case beyond your control that keeps you up at night. The question is, “How can I accept Jesus’ words, ‘Let not your heart be troubled,’ when my heart feels so broken?”

Through His Son, God has a message of encouragement for my family and me, and perhaps for you if you are currently facing a challenging situation too. First, Jesus said that in this world we would have afflictions and tribulations; suffering and adversities would not only affect non-believers, but Christians too.

Moreover, Jesus said, “Believe in God, believe also in me” (John 14:1, NKJV). The focus must not be on the problem but in the solution. Do not lose faith in God amid your afflictions. In John 16:33, Jesus states, “But be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (NKJV). And the author of Psalm 23:4 wisely writes, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me” (NKJV).

Lastly, according to John 14:1–3, we must remember that this world is not our home. Jesus has prepared a home in heaven for you, for our beloved Catalina, and for all of those awaiting His return, for “God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away” (Rev. 21:4, NKJV).

Now, more than ever, I long for that day.

Jorge Aguero serves as the president of the New Jersey Conference.

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