Mustard Seed Moments: The Grand Consolation Prize

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In our culture, the term “parting gift” usually brings to mind the token supplied to the loser of a game show, as in, “Thanks for playing. Johnny, tell them what we have for them!”

A consolation prize by definition is intended to alleviate or lessen the grief, sorrow, or disappointment of; give solace or comfort. Even in sports, the consolation game is to determine the better of the losing semifinalists.

How contrary to this concept is the action of our Lord as he prepared to leave this earth. He not only gifted us with dying in our place that we might live…in John 14, as Christ prepares for his death and leaving his disciples, he also promises to send the HolySpirit as a guide. Then, he provides the ultimate consolation gift, but this one is not lesser…not inferior…not for the loser. In the truest sense of the word, it is a gift that consoles.

In John 14:27, Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.” The Message translation even renders this, “I’m leaving you well and whole. That’s my parting gift to you. Peace.”

May we gratefully claim and humbly realize the power of all he has gifted us. And with His peace in us in these uncertain times, we are truly winners, in every way imaginable.

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