Affection In The Upper Room

affection - Affection in the Upper Room

Leaning back on Jesus’ breast . . . John 13:25

The time of His departure is near, and Jesus has just revealed the troubling news about His betrayal. In utter shock and disbelief, the disciples listen as the Lord says, “One of you is going to betray me.” Having heard that announcement, they stare at one another in silence.

Peter motions to John and encourages him to ask the Master for more information: “Find out who the traitor is,” Peter requests. John asks the question that Peter suggests, but in a much more caring manner. John has no idea exactly how to handle the situation, but he draws closer to Jesus. Finally, he asks, “Lord, who is it?”

Scripture tell us that at that moment, John leaned close to Jesus, even to the point of leaning back against Him. This is a warm, caring, compassionate gesture on John’s part. John seems to sense Christ’s agony, and he shows the love and concern for his Teacher through genuine, appropriate affection.

John wanted more than anything to solve the problem at hand. But how in the world could he have helped the Savior of the universe? How could he have done anything that would make a difference? Apparently, John was quite aware of his inability to fix the problem, so he simply cared for Jesus with a simple touch.

I (David) wonder if I could take a few hints from John.

There are times when I’m not exactly sure how to help Teresa or support her when she’s in pain. And if I can’t fix the problem, then I’m often at a loss for what to do. It’s at those times that I shouldn’t minimize the value of simple affection. It may seem inadequate to solve the problem, but my touch tells my wife, “I care, and I’m here for you.”

During times of trouble and pain, there’s no greater message than that.

What steps could you take to learn to show simple affection to your spouse during troubling times?