He Knows — Luke 22; John 18

Come, Follow Me: New Testament 2023 (June 12–18)

This month is the first anniversary of my mom’s death. Grief is a complicated experience and while it’s defined and explained in books and Hallmark cards, it really is indescribable. There just aren’t external words that match the internal experience. But Jesus knows. 

“And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren” (Luke 22:31, 32). 

Peter didn’t realize his testimony was still in its infancy, and more growth was needed. But Jesus knew.

“Behold, thou art Joseph, and thou wast chosen to do the work of the Lord, but because of thy transgression, if thou art not aware thou wilt fall. But remember, God is merciful; therefore, repent of that which thou hast done which is contrary to the commandment which I gave you, and thou art still chosen, and art again called to the work;…” (D&C 3:9,10). Even when we make big mistakes, Jesus is there, knowing we can do better. 

Jesus knows your name. He knows your challenges and heartbreaks. He knows your hard work and your efforts when no one else notices. He knows your pain and your fears and the load you carry. He knows what is in the deepest parts of your soul. 

He knows what can’t be put into words. He understands when no one else can. This is the inexpressible gift only He can give because of what He did for us in a place called Gethsemane.