Today’s scripture: John 12:12-19 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Cheryl Stonestreet):
I saw a wall plaque in a mausoleum (of all places) that deeply influenced my faith in Jesus. I can’t quote the poem that was inscribed on the plaque, but I remember the meaning. It has stuck with me since the moment I read it, because it came to me at a time when I had doubts about my belief in Jesus. Maybe you’ve seen this poem someplace, too. I am sorry I don’t know the name of it. In short it says, no matter what you may think or believe, or not think or not believe about Jesus, the fact is, he changed the world.
How true that is. There have been a lot of gods who came before him, and a handful of religions that have gained in popularity since. Islam, in particular is especially large and powerful. But who has influenced like Jesus? He gave us the Golden Rule, so simple yet so profound. He gave us all a way in which to seek and reach our Creator. We even measure the date by his life here on earth!
The Pharisees were right. There was nothing they could do when the world had gone after him. He came with a mission.
Prayer for the day: Lord, help me accomplish my mission with the same tenacity, grace, love, and wisdom as Jesus.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.