Acts 19:1-8 / John 16:29-33
There is a proverb that goes like this: Be not afraid of growing slowly; be afraid of standing still.
With that being said, it is inevitable that growth requires moving out of the comfort zone, just like how seeds have to sprout out, eggs have to be hatched and babies have to come out of the womb.
Moving out of the comfort zone would also mean uncertainty, anxiety and challenges.
In the gospel, the disciples made a rather bold statement when they said to Jesus, "We believe that you came from God."
They were probably expecting Jesus to congratulate them for believing in Him at last.
But what Jesus said in reply probably puzzled and astonished them. Jesus talked about them being scattered, leaving Him alone and that they will have trouble.
But He also had encouraging words - they will find peace in Him because He had conquered the world. They just need to be brave.
Those words of Jesus are also for us. Strength and growth come only through continuous effort and struggle.
The troubles and pains we feel today is the strength we feel tomorrow.
And let us also pray to the Holy Spirit, that we too with Jesus will conquer the world and find peace.