Today’s scripture: John 12:27-36 (NRSV) (The Message) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Robert Ferguson):
In our verse for today we find Jesus dealing with his own troubled soul. Though he knew that his death had to happen, he was not looking forward to it.
Even as Jesus pleads with God for a different ending, in the very next breath he acknowledges that this is his purpose. Imagine what it must feel like to be so confident and assured of your purpose according to God’s design.
I certainly often find myself asking God, “What would you have me to do?” or, “Am I walking the right path?” Life does offer so many options. There are paths that lead to career success and paths that lead to personal fulfillment. Sometimes it’s difficult to know whether we are pleasing God or pleasing ourselves.
Jesus knew that his impending death would be painful and would end his time on earth. I believe there were many reasons why Jesus was dreading his death on Calvary. However, what we need to know today is that Jesus accepts his calling even though He would have preferred that God find another way to reconcile the world. Jesus, who calls for our own faith, displays for us his faith in the heavenly creator. Even at this appointed hour Jesus is teaching us that he is the light in an ever darkening world.
The teachings of Jesus are one way we can gain confidence and direction. In the reading today Jesus shows us that his faith in God was unmovable and unshakeable. This is the faith that we must strive to imitate — faith that is so strong that regardless of the task at hand, no matter how dark or scary, “I will go where You send me.”
Sometimes this world can be a very dark and foreboding place. But I believe that Christ is the light and as long as I follow that light I won’t be misguided or led astray. God be with us as we follow the example Jesus set out for us. We will find ourselves walking and growing in knowledge and peace.
Thought for the day: Jesus, be my light.
Today, let’s join together in prayer for: Heather and Caroline, and their brand new baby boy! He was born a few weeks early and weighs only 4½ pounds, but is healthy. He’ll be in the NICU for a while as he gains some weight.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. Use the item above as a starting point, or consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.