Today’s Reading: John 13:31-38; Psalm 58

Jesus, our Savior, poured out his life as a sacrifice for our sins. He knew what was ahead and willingly accepted the role of the sacrificial lamb. His body would be broken and his blood would confirm the covenant between Creator and creation. The next few days would be difficult and he encouraged his disciples to trust God through the pain.

As soon as Judas left the room, Jesus said, “The time has come for the Son of Man to enter into his glory, and God will be glorified because of him. And since God receives glory because of the Son, he will give his own glory to the Son, and he will do so at once. Dear children, I will be with you only a little longer. And as I told the Jewish leaders, you will search for me, but you can’t come where I am going. — John 13:31-33

Jesus was talking about dying, and Peter was beside himself. He did not understand what was happening or why it needed to happen. He had more questions than he had answers. He wanted to know where Jesus was going. He couldn’t imagine life without his friend, his teacher, so he desperately tried to come up with a way to stop his world from spinning. He tried to negotiate and volunteered to die in Jesus’ place.

“I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.”

Simon Peter asked him, “Lord, where are you going?”

Jesus replied, “Where I am going, you cannot follow now, but you will follow later.”

Peter asked, “Lord, why can’t I follow you now? I will lay down my life for you.”

Jesus answered, “Die for me? I tell you the truth, Peter – before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.” – John 13:34-38

As much as he was willing, it was not part of the plan for Peter to die for Jesus. If Jesus had allowed Peter to have his way, it would have changed the plan of salvation. God sent His Son as the Passover Lamb and it was time to become a sacrifice for the sins of all mankind, even if it meant saying no to his loyal follower.

It is not easy to get a “no” from God. It comes with all the emotions of disappointment, frustration, grief, and more. The next thing to happen in our life often feels out of our control, but it is in these moments that we learn to let go and truly trust in God. Perhaps that is what you need to do today.

“If you trust me, you are trusting not only me, but also God who sent me. For when you see me, you are seeing the one who sent me. I have come as a light to shine in this dark world, so that all who put their trust in me will no longer remain in the dark.” – John 12:44-46

We often walk away not understanding the bigger picture of God’s plan — why He allows some things to happen and others not to happen. But we are His children and He is our Savior, and in that we find our HOPE. Let’s sit at His feet and learn from the One who willingly died for us. Let’s trust God and allow Him to be the light that shines into our situation; let’s pray for Him to replace our confusion with clarity.

Today’s Reading: John 13:18-30; Psalm 101

But Judas Iscariot, the disciple who would soon betray him, said, “That perfume was worth a year’s wages. It should have been sold and the money given to the poor.” Not that he cared for the poor – he was a thief, and since he was in charge of the disciples’ money, he often stole some for himself. – John 12:4-6

What happened to Judas? When Jesus invited him to be one of his disciples, Judas left everything to follow this man who could heal the sick and raise the dead. I often wonder if Judas was ever “all in” — did he ever fully believe that Jesus was the promised Messiah, or was he just there out of curiosity.

We know from John 12:6 that Judas often took money that belonged to the other disciples, evidence that he lacked integrity. When Mary poured expensive perfume on the feet of Jesus, Judas objected to her display of affection and called it wasteful. He could not wrap his mind around someone loving another person with that kind of extravagance. And here Jesus was, kneeling in front of Judas and washing his feet. Jesus was displaying his extravagant love for Judas, yet he missed the opportunity to reciprocate that love. While others were humbled by this gesture, Judas was seeking his own gain.

“Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them. I am not referring to all of you; I know those I have chosen. But this is to fulfill this passage of Scripture: ‘He who shared my bread has turned against me.’ I am telling you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe that I am who I am. Very truly I tell you, whoever accepts anyone I send accepts me; and whoever accepts me accepts the one who sent me.”

After he had said this, Jesus was troubled in spirit and testified, “Very truly I tell you, one of you is going to betray me.” — John 13:16-21

The disciples were confused, so one of them leaned back against Jesus and asked him who would betray him. When Jesus dipped the piece of bread in the dish and then handed it to Judas, he revealed the heart of one who had been their brother for the last three years. Not only was Judas about to betray Jesus, he was betraying the friends who had done life with him. When Judas reached for the bread, he made the choice to walk away from the fellowship that had been available to him. Because his heart was not fully surrendered to Jesus, he was now available for Satan to enter and use (13:27).

Then Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve disciples, went to the leading priests and asked, “How much will you pay me to betray Jesus to you?” And they gave him thirty pieces of silver. From that time on, Judas began looking for an opportunity to betray Jesus. – Matthew 26:14-16

Judas went out seeking an opportunity to gain financially and he found it. Judas had spent all of that time following without ever becoming an authentic follower of Jesus.

What is our response today to the extravagant love of Jesus? Are we fully surrendered and committed to follow Jesus wherever he might lead us, or are we seeking self-gain? When attending church becomes routine or a social opportunity, we begin to critique the church and its leadership. It makes it easy for us to jump from one church to another when we are attending for self-gain instead of looking for an authentic worship experience — not an experience where I am entertained, but one where my heart is fully focused on God. I want God to be pleased with my worship of Him. I want to love Him extravagantly, humbly worshiping him with a heart of integrity.

To the faithful you show yourself faithful; to those with integrity you show integrity. — Psalm 18:25

I will sing of your love and justice, Lord.
I will praise you with songs.
I will be careful to live a blameless life—
when will you come to help me?
I will lead a life of integrity
in my own home. – Psalm 101:1-2

Today’s Reading: John 13:1-17; Psalm 134

Before the Passover celebration, Jesus knew that his hour had come to leave this world and return to his Father. He had loved his disciples during his ministry on earth, and now he loved them to the very end. — John 13:1

What a beautiful verse! Jesus was aware of the suffering he was about to experience, yet his focus was on those he had come to love. They had walked beside Jesus on this journey of life, listening to him teach the crowds, watching him heal the sick, and standing in awe as he raised the dead. Jesus was aware of how difficult the next week would be for those who had daily been by his side. They were more than just followers, they were friends; at one time they had been fans of Jesus, but now they were family.

Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him. — John 13:3-5

Jesus knew where he had been and he knew where he was going, but he was present in this moment with his disciples. Today was about them and Jesus chose to be intentional in order to teach them one more time. When he was gone, they would be able to look back at this moment and know how much he loved them. They would also know how to show this same kind of love towards others.

When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them. — John 13:12-17

Now that you know these things, will you do them? With knowledge comes the responsibility to take action. The life of Jesus should be studied for the sake of allowing it to change our lives. It is not just about gaining an understanding of the scriptures, it is about living out our relationship with Christ so that Jesus can continue his ministry both in us and through us.

He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?”
Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.”
“No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.”
Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.” — John 13:6-8

As Jesus was washing the feet of the disciples, he took time to help the one who was struggling to understand. He sensed Peter’s discomfort and took the time to patiently reveal what needed to happen. Clarity would come later; now was the time for obedience. Peter needed to decide if he was willing to submit to God’s plan, no matter how uncomfortable. If he chose pride, it would keep him from fully experiencing all that was ahead. He had shown his willingness to give when he walked away from his fishing boats to follow Jesus, but Peter also needed to learn how to receive, because Jesus did not just want to do something through Peter, he wanted to do something in Peter.

“Then, Lord,” Simon Peter replied, “not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!”
Jesus answered, “Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you.” For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean. — John 13:9-11

Following Jesus requires surrender. Are you willing to walk this journey with Jesus even when you lack the clarity to know where he is taking you or what he is doing? He is drawing us near to him in order to minister to our needs before He uses us to minister to the needs of others. And after we have allowed him to cleanse us, Jesus wants us to humbly love others in the same way he loves us. Are you all in? Feet, hands, head, all of it!

Today’s Reading: John 12:12-50; Psalm 92

As Jesus was leaving Bethany to head to Jerusalem for the week of Passover, crowds began to meet him. Everyone wanted to see Jesus.

Many in the crowd had seen Jesus call Lazarus from the tomb, raising him from the dead, and they were telling others about it. That was the reason so many went out to meet him – because they had heard about this miraculous sign. Then the Pharisees said to each other, “There’s nothing we can do. Look, everyone has gone after him!” – John 12:17-19

BECAUSE OF THE MIRACLES

The crowd was excited to greet Jesus because of all of the miracles they had either seen him perform or heard others talk about. They were drawn towards Jesus in anticipation of what he might do next. Some came with their own needs, hoping for a healing; some came out of curiosity, hoping to see something spectacular. Some believed that Jesus was the promised Messiah while others were still undecided.

A large crowd of Passover visitors took palm branches and went down the road to meet him. They shouted,
“Praise God!
Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord!
Hail to the King of Israel!”
Jesus found a young donkey and rode on it, fulfilling the prophecy that said:
“Don’t be afraid, people of Jerusalem.
Look, your King is coming,
riding on a donkey’s colt.” – John 12:12b-15

We still see this reaction today — a what-can-Jesus-do-for-me approach to religion. But when we follow Christ with the expectation that life will be full of blessings and nothing will ever go wrong, we have a crisis of faith when life gets hard. And, as all of us can testify, life definitely gets hard.

But despite all the miraculous signs Jesus had done, most of the people still did not believe in him. This is exactly what Isaiah the prophet had predicted:
“Lord, who has believed our message?
To whom has the Lord revealed his powerful arm? – John 12:37-38

DESPITE THE MIRACLES

Despite the fact that the lame were walking and the mute were talking, many remained skeptical. Despite the fact that the blind could see and the deaf could hear, many still struggled to believe that Jesus Christ of Nazareth could possibly be the promised Messiah. Their understanding was limited to the temporary things of this world instead of looking beyond to the eternal.

“Now the time has come for the Son of Man to enter into his glory. I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels – a plentiful harvest of new lives. Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity. Anyone who wants to be my disciple must follow me, because my servants must be where I am. And the Father will honor anyone who serves me.” – John 12:23-26

As we finish up our Thanksgiving traditions and begin our celebration of Christmas, let’s maintain an attitude of thankfulness for all Jesus did for us through his birth, life, death and resurrection. Let’s live for how Jesus can work through us, rather than what God’s blessings could do for us. Let’s recognize the many blessings we daily have because of the generosity of our God, and let’s trust Him for all that He has yet to provide. Eyes focused on heaven, let’s praise the Lord for all He has done for us!

BECAUSE HE IS GOOD

It is good to give thanks to the Lord,
to sing praises to the Most High.
It is good to proclaim your unfailing love in the morning,
your faithfulness in the evening,
accompanied by a ten-stringed instrument, a harp,
and the melody of a lyre.
You thrill me, Lord, with all you have done for me!
I sing for joy because of what you have done.
O Lord, what great works you do!
And how deep are your thoughts.
Only a simpleton would not know,
and only a fool would not understand this:
Though the wicked sprout like weeds
and evildoers flourish,
they will be destroyed forever. – Psalm 92:1-7

Today’s Reading: John 12:1-11; Psalm 136

Six days before the Passover celebration began, Jesus arrived in Bethany, the home of Lazarus—the man he had raised from the dead. – John 12:1

CAN YOU IMAGINE HIS GRATITUDE?

Lazarus had been very sick for days. We do not know how many days he was conscious of just how sick it was. Was he praying for his healing? Did he have hope when someone told him that they had sent for Jesus? Was he asking if Jesus had arrived yet? Did he have peace as he took his last breath? But now Lazarus was here, surrounded by his family and friends, as they prepared a dinner in Jesus’ honor. This was his opportunity to once again express just how grateful he was for his resurrection from the dead.

A dinner was prepared in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, and Lazarus was among those who ate with him. – John 12:2

CAN YOU IMAGINE HER GRATITUDE?

Martha had her brother back! I am guessing she could remember everything about that day — from her voiced disappointment that Jesus had not arrived sooner to her protest to Jesus’ instructions to remove the stone. She was so worried about the smell of death that she was missing the vision of life Jesus was preparing for all of them to see. I am sure she would never forget the sight of Lazarus walking out of the grave.

Martha was in her element throwing a party for Jesus. This was her love language. As she selflessly served each guest who had arrived for this dinner, her heart must have been so grateful for the mercy and grace Jesus extended to her. And this wasn’t the first time. Let’s look back at another dinner Mary and Martha threw for Jesus:

As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord’s feet, listening to what he taught. But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, “Lord, doesn’t it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.”

But the Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.” – Luke 10:38-42

What great timing for this passage of scripture. Today many of us will find ourselves scurrying around a kitchen, preparing a Thanksgiving feast for our family and friends. There is so much to do, and our hope is that everything will go perfectly. But let’s not miss the purpose behind this holiday. Let’s discover what Mary knew — today is the day to sit at the feet of Jesus and show our gratitude for the many ways in which we have been blessed.

Let’s take a moment to look around the room today. Perhaps there will be some missing from our holiday celebration; perhaps there will be heavy hearts and deep needs represented around the table. Let’s not miss the moment to gather together in prayer, letting our Lord know how grateful we are for His faithfulness and provision.

Then Mary took a twelve-ounce jar of expensive perfume made from essence of nard, and she anointed Jesus’ feet with it, wiping his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance. – John 12:3

CAN YOU IMAGINE HER GRATITUDE?

Can you position yourself at the feet of Jesus today and pour out your heart of gratitude to Him? Can you value your time with Jesus over everything else?

But Judas Iscariot, the disciple who would soon betray him, said, “That perfume was worth a year’s wages. It should have been sold and the money given to the poor.” Not that he cared for the poor—he was a thief, and since he was in charge of the disciples’ money, he often stole some for himself.

Jesus replied, “Leave her alone. She did this in preparation for my burial. You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.” – John 12:4-8

WHERE WAS HIS GRATITUDE AND WHERE IS MINE?

I love Thanksgiving and I am really looking forward to ALL today holds. I am looking forward to the food and the game time; I know my cup will be filled from all the hugs and laughter. But I do not want to miss this opportunity to invite Jesus into our day. There is so much to be thankful for!

What are you thankful for today? I am thankful for YOU! Thank you so much for so faithfully joining me in the study of God’s word each day. Your words encourage me and I thank God today for YOU!

He remembered us in our weakness.
His faithful love endures forever.
He saved us from our enemies.
His faithful love endures forever.
He gives food to every living thing.
His faithful love endures forever.
Give thanks to the God of heaven.
His faithful love endures forever. – Psalm 136:23-26

Today’s Reading: John 11:25-26; Psalm 38

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” — John 11:25-26

The Lord gave me a song for 2020 — a song I would daily listen to, letting the truth of God’s promises wash over me during a time of uncertainty in many areas of my life. When 2021 started, I waited for God to give me another song for what I needed. I needed to be reminded of God’s faithfulness, and I needed to surrender myself to His call on my life once more. This morning I allowed the Lord to take me back to all that he was teaching me in 2021.

In January of that year, I had to make some pretty big decisions for the ministry and I needed God to equip me for the leadership to which he had called me. I leaned hard on God.

February began and we drove to Joplin, Missouri, to check out the medical school God was leading Libby to attend. As we looked at apartments and checked out coffee shops, I reminded myself that God was working all things out according to His purpose. When everything inside of me wanted to pull my girl closer, I had to once again tell God that I would trust Him.

A few weeks later, as I rushed to the hospital, I had to trust that God had my husband in His very capable hands. Fast forward to April, God was stirring our obedience and the possibility that there was a big move in our future. When I accepted a call into full-time ministry when I was 17 years old, I told God I would go anywhere and do anything for Him. He reminded me that I needed to be light on my feet and remain willing to be used by Him in the “Second Act” of my life.

In the midst of resting in what He had ahead, God gave me my 2021 song — I Will Trust by Red Rocks Worship. The lyrics speak of our experience of God’s love during seasons of darkness, where we pursue God even when we cannot see where we are going. We cry out for our Good Shepherd to lead each step while also leading our heart.

It is one thing to pack up our belongings, hand over the keys to the home we love, and move a few hundred miles away, but my heart needed to make the move as well. A long time ago, I asked God to see the desires of my heart – that my heart would always be in sync with what He wanted in my life. That continues to be my prayer today. Good Shepherd, lead my heart — transform my desires and use me however you want. Do what you want to do with me, no matter where your heart takes me. I choose to trust you.

In October of 2021, we traveled to visit my parents and spend a few hours with family. I walked in the front door and my dad walked towards me with a smile on his face. He gave me a big hug and I had no doubt that he was genuinely happy to see me. We sat in the living room and talked for a long time. He was alert and I could understand everything he said. I smiled at him and told him he was having a really good day. He looked at me and said, “I’m having a really good day.” I thanked God for allowing us to visit my father on one of the summits of the roller coaster ride Parkinson’s creates for families.

Do not abandon me, O Lord.
Do not stand at a distance, my God.
Come quickly to help me,
O Lord my savior. – Psalm 38:21-22

One week later, my dad was clearly descending from that summit. He stopped eating, stopped talking, and stopped having good days. By the weekend, we were standing around his ICU bed. The second morning, I walked in the room and greeted him, squeezing his hand. I told him I loved him. He opened his eyes, lifted my hand to his mouth and kissed the back of my hand. A few days later, the hallucinations began. We sat around his bed and sang hymns. He mouthed some of the words. When we turned off the music, he began his sermon. We couldn’t hear the words and we couldn’t understand him, but there was very little doubt that he was either talking about Jesus or to Jesus.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. – Psalm 23:4

The lyrics of my 2021 song continued to remind me that Jesus was with me during this unfamiliar storm we were experiencing. I did not need to fear the grave; I did not need to fear the waves. And God was faithful. He anchored each one of us as we said goodbye to the one who had brought so much life to our family. The Lord proved to us that we can trust Him as we walk through the valley of the shadow of death.

It has been two years since we gathered together to celebrate the life of Larry Alan Fortado. He is no longer trapped in a body that won’t allow him to do what he wants to do. He is singing in tune, walking without assistance, and he is dancing. Oh, how he loved to dance and smile and praise God. And he loved people. He looked beyond how messy their lives were, and he dove deep to make a difference in this world. And now he is surrounded by many whose lives were impacted by his willingness to be used by God.

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” — John 11:25-26

DO YOU BELIEVE THIS?

I do not know what kind of storm you are going through right now, but I hope that the words of these verses have encouraged you. Perhaps you are still grieving the death of a loved one, or maybe you are in the middle of that journey right now. If you are facing the possibility of your own death, I pray that God will give you a peace that surpasses understanding. My prayer for you this morning is that you will trust the Good Shepherd to both lead your steps and your heart. Even though it may be the hardest thing you have ever done, I pray you will choose to trust God today.

[I Will Trust lyrics by Kory Miller, Brinnae Keathley / Red Rocks Worship Publishing / Be Essential Songs (BMI) (admin. at EssentialMusicPublishing.com)]

Today’s Reading: John 11; Psalm 35

But when Jesus heard about it he said, “Lazarus’s sickness will not end in death. No, it happened for the glory of God so that the Son of God will receive glory from this.” So although Jesus loved Martha, Mary, and Lazarus, he stayed where he was for the next two days. Finally, he said to his disciples, “Let’s go back to Judea.” – John 11:4-7

FOR THE GLORY OF GOD

When Lazarus became sick, Mary and Martha sent a message to Jesus. We see later in the passage that there was an unspoken expectation with that message, and there was hurt expressed when Jesus did not do what they wanted him to do when they wanted him to do it (11:21-22). But Jesus saw the larger picture, and he made the choice to wait for two days before making his way back to Judea. In fact, it was not until he knew that Lazarus had passed away that he told his disciples of his plans to go and wake up his sleeping friend.

They thought Jesus meant Lazarus was simply sleeping, but Jesus meant Lazarus had died. So he told them plainly, “Lazarus is dead. And for your sakes, I’m glad I wasn’t there, for now you will really believe. Come, let’s go see him.” – John 11:14-15

SO THAT THE DISCIPLES WOULD REALLY BELIEVE

Jesus showed up in the midst of their grief. Martha was the first of the two sisters to meet Jesus as he arrived at Bethany. After she voiced her disappointment that he had not come sooner, Jesus told Martha that Lazarus would rise again. Her faith brought her to the point of agreeing that Lazarus would rise again on the last day with everyone else, but Jesus was there to take her faith to the next level.

Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die. Do you believe this, Martha?”
“Yes, Lord,” she told him. “I have always believed you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one who has come into the world from God.” – John 11:25-27

Martha went to find Mary. Pulling her aside, she told her that Jesus wanted to see her. Mary immediately went to him, but the mourners saw her leave and followed her, creating a chorus of wailing that followed each step she took. When he saw Mary’s grief and heard the loud sorrow of the uninvited mourners, scripture says a deep anger welled up within him.

Jesus asked where Lazarus was, so they brought him to the cave, which had been sealed by a stone. Jesus wept as he moved to the place where Lazarus had been laid. Even as he moved toward the miracle, the people standing nearby criticized that this man who had healed a blind man had not kept his friend from dying.

Have you seen yourself in this passage of scripture yet? Have you witnessed any of this behavior in others? When God does not answer our prayers in the way we want him to, many choose to pull their faith. Others start doubting the wisdom of God or they criticize His perfect timing. When we can’t see the purpose behind the delay or we have to sit in the reality of God’s “no”, we can either focus on our disappointment or we can allow this difficulty to strengthen our faith.

Jesus was still angry as he arrived at the tomb, a cave with a stone rolled across its entrance. “Roll the stone aside,” Jesus told them.

But Martha, the dead man’s sister, protested, “Lord, he has been dead for four days. The smell will be terrible.”

“Didn’t I tell you that you would see God’s glory if you believe?” So they rolled the stone aside. Then Jesus looked up to heaven and said, “Father, thank you for hearing me. You always hear me, but I said it out loud for the sake of all these people standing here, so that they will believe you sent me.” Then Jesus shouted, “Lazarus, come out!” And the dead man came out, his hands and feet bound in grave clothes, his face wrapped in a head cloth. Jesus told them, “Unwrap him and let him go!” – John 11:38-44

FOR THE SAKE OF THOSE OBSERVING THE SITUATION

We live in an imperfect world where sin has resulted in sickness, disease and disaster. Accidents happen and tragedies are a reality of this earthly existence. No one is exempt from the pain of this world. Therefore, when we find ourselves needing a miracle, we do what Jesus taught us to do — we ask. And when our prayer is not answered in the way we asked, we do what Jesus taught us to do — we trust. We trust that God will be glorified, we trust that God will use the situation to grow our faith, and we hope that those observing the situation will see both the glory of God and our unwavering belief that God is always good!

Many of the people who were with Mary believed in Jesus when they saw this happen. But some went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done. – John 11:45-46

Not everyone will respond in the way we hope they will. Some will explain away the miracles God gives us, while others will join us in giving God the glory for answered prayers. Some will delight in trouble coming our way and encourage us to be angry with God, while others will join us in praying for God to get the glory no matter the outcome.

Lord, one thing we are confident of this morning — you show up for us in our grief. You are a God of compassion who cares deeply for us, and you are patient with our emotions. You understand our anger because you know what it feels like to be angry; you understand our grief because you, too, have grieved. We come to you this morning with all of our needs and requests, trusting for you to be glorified and for faith to be fueled no matter the outcome. As we focus on thankfulness this week, we want to declare that we are grateful to serve a God who is always faithful and always good! Amen!

Today’s Reading: John 10; Psalm 65

“I tell you the truth, anyone who sneaks over the wall of a sheepfold, rather than going through the gate, must surely be a thief and a robber! But the one who enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep recognize his voice and come to him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice. They won’t follow a stranger; they will run from him because they don’t know his voice.” – John 10:1-5

There is so much that Jesus is revealing about himself in this chapter. If we lean in and look closely at this passage, we might gain a better understanding of our Lord and Savior this morning. You see, Jesus does not want to remain a mystery to us. He invites us to get to know him, just as he went to great lengths to explain his analogies to the crowds of people who were seeking to understand who he was and who he came from.

Those who heard Jesus use this illustration didn’t understand what he meant, so he explained it to them: “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. All who came before me were thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them. Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures. The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.” – John 10:6-10

JESUS IS THE GATE.

Jesus came that we may have life, and that we might have it more abundantly (John 10:10b KJV). He not only opened up the gate, his coming provided the opening through which we can experience freedom — a gate that allows us to come and go freely, finding good pastures to rest in and to eat from. Before Jesus came, there was no gate. We were confined by our sinful nature, a slave to sin (Romans 6:6). But sin is no longer our master, because we no longer live under the requirements of the law, but under the freedom of God’s grace (Romans 6:14).

Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. If you had really known me, you would know who my Father is. From now on, you do know him and have seen him!” – John 14:6-7

JESUS IS THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE.

Jesus walks ahead of us, and those of us who know his voice choose to follow him. He is the only way to truly experience abundant life. We can place our faith in him, trusting everything he said, because Jesus is truth. As we listen to Jesus, we gain an understanding of the sacrifice he made out of his deep love for us.

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep. A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will abandon the sheep because they don’t belong to him and he isn’t their shepherd. And so the wolf attacks them and scatters the flock. The hired hand runs away because he’s working only for the money and doesn’t really care about the sheep.” – John 10:11-13

JESUS IS THE GOOD SHEPHERD.

What a great reminder that Jesus cares deeply about us, protecting us from the enemy who attacks us. This enemy or wolf wants to scatter the flock, dividing us and creating chaos among us. This is his consistent mode of operation against the church and among followers of Jesus worldwide. But Jesus speaks out over the chaos, allowing us to hear his voice. If we will just listen to the voice of Jesus, we will be one flock with one shepherd.

“I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me, just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep. I have other sheep, too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one shepherd.

“The Father loves me because I sacrifice my life so I may take it back again. No one can take my life from me. I sacrifice it voluntarily. For I have the authority to lay it down when I want to and also to take it up again. For this is what my Father has commanded.” – John 10:14-18

The people in those days lost their patience with Jesus’ analogies. They wanted him to tell them plainly whether or not he was the promised Messiah. He had performed miracles among them, yet they refused to believe that he was sent from God. He revealed himself through every word spoken and every story told, but they did not listen to him because they did not recognize his voice.

JESUS IS THE MESSIAH.

Jesus replied, “I have already told you, and you don’t believe me. The proof is the work I do in my Father’s name. But you don’t believe me because you are not my sheep. My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me, for my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand. The Father and I are one.” – John 10:25-30

Let’s spend time with our Lord this morning, soaking in the truth of who he was when he walked on this earth and who Jesus still is today. He is the gate; he has provided a way for us to experience abundant life. All we have to do is keep our eyes on our Good Shepherd, following his lead and listening to his beautiful voice. As we enter into a celebration of Thanksgiving, let’s find our way back to an authentic gratitude for the sacrifice that God made when He sent His Son to die for our sins so that we can experience freedom from sin and protection from the evil one.

Lord, lead us and we will follow. Speak to us and we will listen to your voice. Thank you for being the way, the truth and the life, providing a light for us in this dark world we live in. We are overwhelmed with love for you this morning. Amen.

Today’s Reading: John 9; 2 Kings 20

“Why, that’s very strange!” the man replied. “He healed my eyes, and yet you don’t know where he comes from? We know that God doesn’t listen to sinners, but he is ready to hear those who worship him and do his will. Ever since the world began, no one has been able to open the eyes of someone born blind. If this man were not from God, he couldn’t have done it.” – John 9:30-33

These were the words of a man who was born blind. But today Jesus and his disciples had walked by him and his life would never be the same. The disciples had asked Jesus if the man was blind because of his own sin or because of the sin of his parents. Right before Jesus spit on the ground, made mud from the saliva and placed it on the man’s eyes, he said these words to his disciples:

“It was not because of his sins or his parents’ sins,” Jesus answered. “This happened so the power of God could be seen in him. We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent us. The night is coming, and then no one can work. But while I am here in the world, I am the light of the world.” – John 9:3-5

Jesus, the light of the world, stopped in front of the man who had never known anything but darkness. Jesus was present and available to do something miraculous in his life, but it required action on the blind man’s part. First, the man had to be still and allow this stranger to place mud over his eyes. Next, he was faced with the decision of whether or not to obey the instructions Jesus gave him. Jesus said to go, and the blind man went.

He told him, “Go wash yourself in the pool of Siloam” (Siloam means “sent”). So the man went and washed and came back seeing! – John 9:7

THIS IS WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE TO BE SENT.

The man followed the instructions of Jesus before he was healed. Nothing had changed yet; he was still blind. But Jesus said to go and he went. Jesus sent him to the pool of Siloam, requiring an action of faith on the man’s part. The gift of healing was made available to the blind man, but he had to cooperate with the gift giver in order to receive the gift.

The pool of Siloam was built by King Hezekiah, another man who knew what it was to obey the Lord’s instructions in the midst of a fatal illness. After praying for the Lord to see him in the midst of his terminal condition, God sent this message to Hezekiah through the prophet Isaiah.

“Go back to Hezekiah, the leader of my people. Tell him, ‘This is what the Lord, the God of your ancestor David, says: I have heard your prayer and seen your tears. I will heal you, and three days from now you will get out of bed and go to the Temple of the Lord. I will add fifteen years to your life, and I will rescue you and this city from the king of Assyria. I will defend this city for my own honor and for the sake of my servant David.’” – 2 Kings 20:5-6

THIS IS WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE TO BE SEEN AND HEARD.

In his distress, Hezekiah had cried out to the Lord, asking Him to remember him. He had been faithful to the Lord, consistently doing what would please God, and so Hezekiah prayed to be seen. The healing was not in this moment of asking, but rather three days later. Hezekiah had to sit in the promise of his healing, waiting for God to do what He said he would do. He had to choose between inpatient bitterness or faith. The servants were sent by Isaiah to make an ointment for Hezekiah, and Hezekiah had to cooperate with the Lord’s plan. Hezekiah was patient and he experienced divine healing, and God added fifteen years to his life.

King Hezekiah had a pool built inside the city of Jerusalem, but it did not fill with water until he also had a tunnel built. This tunnel connected the fresh water supply to the pool, which Hezekiah named the Pool of Siloam, which means “sent”. To be sent means someone or something has caused you to go or to be taken to another location — to cause movement or to arrange for delivery. The fresh water the people needed was provided by God but it had to be SENT to the pool, just as the blind man was SENT to the pool to receive the healing that he needed.

THIS IS WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE TO BE FOUND.

When Jesus heard what had happened, he found the man and asked, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?”
The man answered, “Who is he, sir? I want to believe in him.”
“You have seen him,” Jesus said, “and he is speaking to you!”
“Yes, Lord, I believe!” the man said. And he worshiped Jesus.
Then Jesus told him, “I entered this world to render judgment—to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind.” – John 9:35-39

Have you followed the last instructions you received from the Lord? Obey and experience what happens when we cooperate with the Gift Giver. My friend, you have been sent. What are you waiting for?

Are you facing a situation that has you longing for God’s attention? Cry out to the Lord and experience what it feels like to be heard and seen by the God of compassion. Jesus told us to ask, seek and knock (Matthew 7:7). Make your request to the Lord and then wait patiently for His response, trusting His answer no matter what it is.

Do you recognize the impact of God’s prevenient grace in your life? He has been actively involved in your life since before you were born. He found you in your sin and offered you the gift of salvation. Jesus was SENT by God and now He is calling you to step into your day as a SENT follower of Christ.

My friend, this is what it feels like to be found and this is what it looks like to be SENT. Now we must quickly carry out the tasks assigned to us by the one who sent us — the Light of the World who wants to shine through us so that the blind can see and the lost can be found.

Today’s Reading: John 8:37-59; Psalm 135

“Yes, I realize that you are descendants of Abraham. And yet some of you are trying to kill me because there’s no room in your hearts for my message.” – John 8:37

We are about to take a look at one of the more heated conversations between Jesus and the crowd of people, which included religious leaders. But first, let’s make sure we have room in our hearts for the message the Lord wants us to hear today. May God’s Spirit speak to each one of us individually, casting light on any erroneous thinking or false theology. May we be open to any area of our life or attitude that the Lord would like to work on this morning.

LET’S MAKE ROOM IN OUR HEARTS FOR THE MESSAGE GOD HAS FOR US TODAY.

“Our father is Abraham!” they declared.
“No,” Jesus replied, “for if you were really the children of Abraham, you would follow his example. Instead, you are trying to kill me because I told you the truth, which I heard from God. Abraham never did such a thing. No, you are imitating your real father.” – John 8:39-41a

The people saw themselves as having what you could call a religious pedigree. They took pride in being an ancestor of Abraham. Jesus pointed out to them that they took after their earthly fathers rather than Abraham, because Abraham would never have responded to the promised Messiah with threats and murderous strategies.

They replied, “We aren’t illegitimate children! God himself is our true Father.”
Jesus told them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, because I have come to you from God. I am not here on my own, but he sent me.” – John 8:41b-42

They wanted to claim a spiritual pedigree by declaring that God was their true father. They were Jewish and therefore part of God’s holy anointed people. Not only were the religious leaders who were joining in this argument Abraham’s descendants, they were part of the spiritual elite. They were teachers of the Jewish law, experts in the holy scriptures, and leaders in the synagogue. But Jesus pointed out that they were all missing the heart of God, who loves Jesus and, in fact, sent Jesus to them to warn them of their sinful ways.

“Why can’t you understand what I am saying? It’s because you can’t even hear me! For you are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies. So when I tell the truth, you just naturally don’t believe me! Which of you can truthfully accuse me of sin? And since I am telling you the truth, why don’t you believe me? Anyone who belongs to God listens gladly to the words of God. But you don’t listen because you don’t belong to God.” – John 8:43-47

It’s as if Jesus was saying — Let me tell you about your father. It’s not Abraham, and it’s certainly not God. Your father must be the devil himself because you are acting just like him. You refuse to follow the truth, telling lie after lie, which is a reflection of your character. When you hear the truth, your natural reaction is disbelief. When I speak the truth, your first response is to accuse me of sin. I speak the truth; I am the truth. If you belonged to God, you would listen to the words of God that I am speaking.

The people retorted, “You Samaritan devil! Didn’t we say all along that you were possessed by a demon?”
“No,” Jesus said, “I have no demon in me. For I honor my Father—and you dishonor me. And though I have no wish to glorify myself, God is going to glorify me. He is the true judge. I tell you the truth, anyone who obeys my teaching will never die!” – John 8:49-51

WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?

This seems to be the heart of the argument between the people and Jesus. They saw themselves as God’s children because they were descendants of Abraham. Jesus was telling them that he was God’s son, but they refused to believe him. They were wrong about who they were and they were wrong about who Jesus was.

Jesus answered, “If I want glory for myself, it doesn’t count. But it is my Father who will glorify me. You say, ‘He is our God,’ but you don’t even know him. I know him. If I said otherwise, I would be as great a liar as you! But I do know him and obey him. Your father Abraham rejoiced as he looked forward to my coming. He saw it and was glad.” – John 8:54-56

The people identified as children of God, when in fact they did not know Him. If they knew God, that familial relationship would be evidenced in how they responded to the message of Jesus. They would have recognized the presence of God in every word Jesus spoke and every miracle he performed. They were so focused on the position they believed God owed them because of their spiritual heritage that they were missing the opportunity to authentically worship the Messiah himself.

WHO DO WE THINK WE ARE?

How often are we guilty of identifying as a Christian while neglecting our relationship with the Lord? Do we mistake our knowledge of the scripture for an understanding of God? Do we know him? I do not want to make the same mistake that the crowd made that day. I do not want to be wrong about who I am in Christ, and I do not want to be wrong about who Jesus is. And the best way I can protect myself from false assumptions and misinformation is to spend time every day getting to know my Lord — spending time in prayer, studying the bible and listening to His still small voice.

Lord, we believe you are who you say you are. We believe you are the Great I Am, and we humbly submit to who you are calling us to be. Thank you for the opportunity to enter into a relationship with you and get to know you more each day. Show us the ways we are trying to fit you into a mold we can be comfortable with, instead of genuinely seeking you. We know that we are not worthy to be called a child of God, but we thank you for the opportunity to be adopted into the family because of what you did for us on the cross and through your resurrection from the dead. Amen.

In the same way, “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.” The real children of Abraham, then, are those who put their faith in God. – Galatians 3:6-7