There is so much in this passage that strikes me – so much tension and unseen drama. Though the crowd was completely oblivious, Jesus as coming to the end of the most significant quest in history. It was the culmination of a mission which originated in the Garden of Eden. It was crescendo of a spiritual struggle that started long before that. Jesus Christ, equal with God, through Him all things on earth were created, was prepared to die at the hands of the very people He created.

I can’t shake the phrase, “Now my soul is troubled.” Jesus’ divinity knew what was coming, and His flesh trembled. Not one of us can imagine the weight of the sin Jesus carried to the cross – a staggering burden. I only know my sin was included. He bore it to the cross though it cost Him everything.

I’m also struck at that last phrase – Jesus tells the crowd, “The light is among you for a little while longer. Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you.” In our day, this phrase takes on extra meaning. We see light fading and shadows beginning to lengthen. Each day, I wonder how much longer until the Lord decides, “That’s enough. This day has passed. Time to call my children home.”

Of course, He hasn’t done that, yet. Peter said that God is slow, patient, not wanting anyone to perish. So the Church must continue to shine the light of Jesus into the world until night falls. Lord, give us endurance to shine, even as the darkness of our culture rights against the light. Keep our eyes on the light; don’t let us become fixated on the darkness. Find us faithful, Lord, until you call us home.