Usually, repeating something means that what we have said is important to us –
we want to make sure that the person we are speaking to has understood well and will not forget!
This is exactly the case with the text giving us Jesus’ words today, it is repeated.
The words are pronounced at a very solemn moment –
that of the last supper of Jesus with his apostles before his Passion.
He notices their anxiety, and he is aware of their attitude which shows unease.
Then, it tells them, and he repeats:
“Do not let your hearts be troubled.
Trust in God still, and trust in me…
Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid” (John 14:1,27).
Fear, fright, anxiety, are sentiments that are well known to us.
Different personal situations have led us to experience them.
Jesus, too, has known these feelings – the apostle John mentions this in his gospel:
“Jesus was troubled in spirit…” (John 13:21)
Yet, he tells his friends not to be troubled.
His words are addressed to us as well and they are meant to reassure us.
Security will come to us – not in the absence of trials of all kinds –
but it will be given to us in the presence of Christ with us, through everything…
No need to believe me… Some among you have already made this experience…
Others could be… ‘tempted’ to make this experience for themselves…
Source : Image : lds.org