Jn 16:16-19: A Little While

A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father. Then said some of his disciples among themselves, What is this that he saith unto us, A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me: and, Because I go to the Father? They said therefore, What is this that he saith, A little while? we cannot tell what he saith. Now Jesus knew that they were desirous to ask him, and said unto them, Do ye enquire among yourselves of that I said, A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me?

It was only a little while, yet how they would sorrow. Their Master, Leader, and the One who called them friends would be taken by men. Betrayed by Judas (Lu 22:48). Delivered up to Pilate (Mt 27:2). Delivered to be crucified (Mt 27:26). Delivered up His spirit (Jn 19:30) [betrayed and all the mentions of delivered are the same word in the original greek]. Yet all this occurred within 24hrs. It was just a little while, and a dead Rabbi in the grave meant their faith was in vain, they were most miserable (1 Cor 15:17, 19). Perhaps only Mary of Bethany understood He must die (Jn 12:7). Yet only a little while and He would rise! Sadness to Happiness. Sorrow to Joy. Anguish to Rejoicing. It was only a little while.

Lord, might I keep in perspective your higher ways. Tribulations are only a little while. All the afflictions of this life are according to your purposes and to build my faith so that I may endure. It's only a little while and sorrow is turned to joy.