SCRIPTURE: John 12:20-26
“We would like to see Jesus.” (John 12:21)
Though some people are disillusioned with the church, most still are open to Jesus.
As Jesus-followers, we need to help people connect to Jesus – not build walls.
Through His death, He saves many, and they in turn become seed for planting.
“Unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.” (John 12:24)
Jesus followers are ‘seed’, meant to be planted (sacrificed) to share Jesus with others.
Jesus promised to be with His missionaries to the very end (Matthew 28:18-20).
Many Christians like it that Jesus is with them, but are they with Jesus?
Jesus is out there among the people, sharing His life with people in need.
“Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be.” (John 12:26)
Too many Christians like to be saved, but show no concern for others who need Him.
Jesus uses hyperbole (strong language) – to hate their life – to expose selfish living.
Instead of being so wrapped up in your own lives, invest your life for others, for God.
A life lived sharing Jesus’ love is the life of a Jesus-follower.
He is with us, are we with Him (on the front lines)?
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, there are still many people who want to see You, who need to know You. Help me to be a blessing, not a barrier. Help me to love others, not just myself. I want to be where You are!
Jesus follower
trying to find His way
This is where in this context I’m reminded that in order to be really with Jesus. I first need to have a heart like His. Learn how He loved and always had the time for others regardless of how busy he seemed. Secondly, reading into His word because how will I truly follow Him to the best that I can if I don’t turn to the Bible where it’s words of wisdom are already written out? Thirdly, I need to become a servant like Jesus. The night he was crucified he was washing his disciples feet (serving them). I too want to be a blessing and not a barrier!
Observation/Application
What would my response be when others ask that they would like to see Jesus? Come and see? Come and see what the Lord God is doing this day. See the people gathered together in singing, prayer, listening and participating. Communion with the living God.
The seed story not only tells of Christ’s death and resurrection – His victory over sin – Satan conquered, but also of my declaration to serve Him – His desires for my life over my desires. My desire must be to serve Him. Selfish desires put to death and Life given for service in His Kingdom today and always. Jesus is first – always. All for Jesus. He is the reason for being alive, alive forevermore.
Help me Lor to LightShine.
Help me daily to walk in Your SonShine.
Help me daily to live the JOY principle always.
Am I a soldier of the cross,
A follower of the Lamb,
And shall I fear to own His cause,
Or blush to speak His Name?
Must I be carried to the skies
On flowery beds of ease,
While others fought to win the prize,
And sailed through bloody seas?
Are there no foes for me to face?
Must I not stem the flood?
Is this vile world a friend to grace,
To help me on to God?
Sure I must fight if I would reign;
Increase my courage, Lord.
I’ll bear the toil, endure the pain,
Supported by Thy Word.