Today’s scripture: John 11:45-57 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Steve Adams):
This is a challenging story for me. The chief priests and the Pharisees say they were afraid Jesus’ signs would cause everyone to believe in him, which would cause the Romans to destroy the temple and Jerusalem. It seems amazing they would catastrophize to this extent about the impact of Jesus prevailing in the world. But what about me? Do I sometimes have similar (but perhaps less wide-ranging) fears at the prospect of Jesus prevailing in my own life?
For example, do I ever worry about what someone will think of me if I invite them to church? Or, am I afraid Jesus will want me to give more than I can afford to his work in the world? Or, what happens if I sense the Spirit tugging at my conscience to report the earnings from my side job to the IRS, therefore obligating me to pay taxes on the income?
Life is full of tests like these, and it’s pure instinct to shrink away from them, isn’t it? And yet without them, we would never reach our spiritual potential. If we exercise faith and surmount the challenges, then our souls grow tremendously. If, on the other hand, we fall short in response to the tests, then we absolutely know that we can rely on Jesus to dust us off and help us grow so we’re equipped to beat the next challenge that comes our way.
Thought for the day: Lord, I ask You to help me have peace about what may come as You direct my steps. Let the chips fall where they may!
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.