John 4:27-38

The Disciples Rejoin Jesus

“Just then his disciples returned and were surprised to find him talking with a woman. But no one asked, “What do you want?” or “Why are you talking with her?”

28 Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people, 29 “Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Messiah?” 30 They came out of the town and made their way toward him. 31 Meanwhile his disciples urged him, “Rabbi, eat something.” 32 But he said to them, “I have food to eat that you know nothing about.”

33 Then his disciples said to each other, “Could someone have brought him food?” 34 “My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work. 35 Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest. 36 Even now the one who reaps draws a wage and harvests a crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together. 37 Thus the saying ‘One sows and another reaps’ is true. 38 I sent you to reap what you have not worked for. Others have done the hard work, and you have reaped the benefits of their labor.”

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Because if surgery, it's been months since we've journeyed through the Gospel of John. It's good to be back on track, so let's pick up where we left off and move forward with the apostle as our guide.

It was a pleasant surprised to see that several of you could relate to the post on John 4:1-26 regarding experiences in life that appear missed opportunities. Elaine at Peace for the Journey shared a similar story, in the comment section, of feeling helpless to assist the victims of recent tornado devastation in her area. What a comfort to know I'm not alone as my small mind attempts to comprehend the world's vast complexities (not that Elaine has a small mind. I only speak for myself). More often than not, God works His will in the most perplexing fashion, but faith reassures us He is thorough to care and provide for those whose heart is set on Him. As one who easily forgets this important gold nugget, I must continually be aware that God will use me when, where, and only if He chooses, according to His wisdom and knowledge. My job is to do precisely what I'm called to do, not pick and choose, which is a grueling lesson on obedience and self-control.

My experience at the grocery story (in the John 4:1-26 blog) was not the first time I've felt unused and dare I say unwanted with regards to doing a work for God. In hindsight, this little jaunt to the market brought to the surface the tip of sinister iceberg. Seems the frustration of missing two opportunities to help a person in need at the checkout brought to surface a lesson that's been calling my name for quite sometime, which leads us to todays lesson.

Interestingly enough, while John 4:1-26's lesson revealed my appreciable zeal to do a good work for God, this week's reading exposed a dangerous undertow fused to this same great passion. Isn't it just like God to not leave well enough alone? He's always so exact and thorough, which is good but remarkably exhausting.

What stuck in my craw in today's passage is verse 38, "I sent you to reap what you have not worked for. Others have done the hard work, and you have reaped the benefits of their labor.” In a flash the word "reap" leaped off the page and into my heart, piercing it like a hot poker. Quicker than a short order cook can flip a pancake, God tailored these words to fit my life and circumstance. While Jesus spoke these words to instill humility into the hearts of the disciples who would soon do great miracles and wonders founded on the work of those who had gone before them, God nudged me toward submission as well, only with my own personal tweak.

Rather than impressing on my heart that I would reap great benefits from those who's gone before me, God stressed the value of those who set the stage for the disciples. Greats like John the Baptist, Old Testament prophets, and a multitude of other godly men and women of the Bible. Some names are well known while others are not, but all set the stage in God's kingdom plan. The lesson pressed on my heart declared the undeniable truth which states, the privilege of reaping tangible rewards is no more important than sowing the seed that makes a harvest possible. After all, a harvest cannot be collected if a humble sower fails to scatter the seed.

In a world that focuses primarily on reaping the harvest, it's tempting to forfeit less attractive work such as sowing. My experience in the grocery story and Elaine's exposure to the tornado victims left us both disappointed and frustrated, wondering why God chose not use us to offer assistance that very moment. I can't speak for Elaine but when my hands are tied to the point where all I can do is pray, frustration breeds. Prayer just doesn't seem to be enough in acute situations, and given my lesson from verse 38, it's probably due to the fact prayer is a quieter behind the scenes activity.

To be honest I'd prefer to stand by a great harvest posing for a picture that could be treasured and shared for all time, as opposed to praying my heart out in veiled secret. I hate to admit it but it's true...and my oh my doesn't that reveal how easily pride and personal gain can hijack zeal for God. It's a slippery slope we all tread, which is why we must walk life with extreme caution, pray every inch of the way, and humbly submit to the will of God no matter where it leads, be it sowing or reaping.

Application:

Verse 38 stood out to me like a sore thumb. What verse of our lesson today strikes a cord with your heart?

Do you ever find it frustrating to be left to simply pray for a situation? If so, what do you think the core of that disappointment is?

Has your own good natured zeal for God ever been hijacked by pride? What can you do to protect your heart from this sleek and deceptive tactic of the enemy?

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John 4:1-26

Jesus Talks With a Samaritan Woman

“Now Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard that he was gaining and baptizing more disciples than John— 2 although in fact it was not Jesus who baptized, but his disciples. 3 So he left Judea and went back once more to Galilee.

4 Now he had to go through Samaria. 5 So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. 6 Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon. 7 When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?” 8 (His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.)

9 The Samaritan woman said to him, “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.) 10 Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.”

11 “Sir,” the woman said, “you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? 12 Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his livestock?” 13 Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, 14 but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”

15 The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.” 16 He told her, “Go, call your husband and come back.” 17 “I have no husband,” she replied. Jesus said to her, “You are right when you say you have no husband. 18 The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true.”

19 “Sir,” the woman said, “I can see that you are a prophet. 20 Our ancestors worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem.” 21 “Woman,” Jesus replied, “believe me, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. 22 You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. 23 Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. 24 God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.”

25 The woman said, “I know that Messiah” (called Christ) “is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.” 26 Then Jesus declared, “I, the one speaking to you—I am he.”

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"Let's get in this line. I want you to meet someone."

Conforming to his wishes, I piloted the buggy into the checkout lane like a race horse at the starting gate. We had a mini-cart full of odds and ends, leading one to believe exiting the grocery store would be a cinch. Jimmy was eager to introduce me to his most recent photo client, the checker of that line, while Dani eyed the tantalizing potpourri of sweets surrounding us on either side. Glancing ahead at the checker, I recognized her even though we'd never before met. As with many of his clients, I hold the advantage of getting acquainted with them as he edits their images on our oversized monitor at home. She was cute as a bug's ear and I couldn't wait to tell her how pretty her photos turned out, if only our dog gone line would get a move on.

I'm generally impatient with slow lines but hadn't given our wait a second thought until the lady customer ahead of us sheepishly mouthed, "Sorry, this is going to take a while." A glimpse closer revealed that her daughter was paying with food stamps, a far cry from a fast swipe of a credit card. I smiled back at her with an it's ok smile to put both our minds at ease. My heart went out to them both as a warm wave of sympathy pulsed through my veins. At least her daughter had family to help her, I theorized in effort to comfort myself. About that time I saw an infant in the cart, melting my heart all the more.

As I pondered the situation of the crew in front of us, unbeknownst to me, Dani was striking up a conversation with a lady to our rear. Zeroing in on a cheery young blond, sweeter than the candy on our periphery, Dani was attempting to communicate. Since Jimmy and I translate for her, we soon boarded the merry-go-round conversation only to discover her son had Autism too. We talked about everything from soup to nuts in the world of Autism and ended up leaving her at the counter as her precious boy underwent a melt down over his torn chip bag.

By the time the automatic doors ushered our exit I was frazzled. Having been bordered, even for a short time, by the poverty and pain, I was perplexed as to the the meaning of it all. The Lord exposed great need in both families, yet the opportunity to help was snuffed out on each account, leaving me to wonder why were we ever there in the first place.

At one point I was about to mention to the blond lady my book Freedom until she specifically mentioned she didn't like to delve too deep into Autism. A little here, a littler there was all she could handle. We had a great conversation, she was a wonderful mother and I told her so, but I never shared my book out of respect for her wishes. I wonder now if I missed a prime opportunity. Then, in the parking lot Jimmy informed me he noticed the mother and daughter ahead of us had to put food back because they didn't have enough money. By this point I was offended. I can't tell you how many times I've asked God for opportunities to help others, and I do but in very small ways, but never in such perfect circumstances as this day. I would have been thrilled to help pay the ladies groceries and delighted to offer my book to this young struggling mother, but for some reason circumstances didn't allow.

Our passage today in verse 4 states Jesus had to go through Samaria. In a day where Jews went out of their way to avoid Samaria and what they felt were its filthy inhabitants, one has to wonder why Jesus had to go through this region. It wasn't conventional and certainly no one's first choice, yet He chose this route to fulfill a mission. Meeting a woman at the well who was a societal outcast, He shared the good news that He was the long awaited Messiah, summoned her to turn from her sin, and accepted her in a pure and loving way. As a result, her transforming testimony brought many Samaritans to believe, making this subtle encounter with humanity's lowest rank one that steered salvation in a direction no one could ever imagine.

As the little Autistic boy at the checkout counter ramped up into a full blown fit, our checker, Jimmy's client, appeared an equal mix of peeved and perplexed. To her credit, she was a young teen with little exposure to disabilities, so Jimmy lovingly campaigned for the child and mother by mouthing over the counter, "it's Autism." Like a cool breeze from the sea, this whit of insight reshaped her demeanor as a glint of acceptance and understanding bedazzled her smile.

In retrospect, now that I think about it, maybe the moral of the story is even though we did not help pay for groceries or offer a book at the grocery store, perhaps this young teen gained greater awareness into the rougher edge of society. Maybe she noticed our patience as we stood in line while the food stamps were being processed, which is out of character for me, or our compassion for the little boy struggling with Autism. Could it be the experience was not in vain but God desiring to show His love through us as He did the woman at the well, with understanding and compassion. No money, no product, no conditions, just genuine loving kindness.

Whether it's at a desert water well or suburban grocery store, you can be sure God is always at work. Sometimes it's tangible and profound, while other times more subtle and unseen. If given a choice I'd rather witness the kind of work He does that blows my hair back and takes my breath away. These scenes are rare as hen's teeth unfortunately and I think it's because to trust in His muted more subdued work, is to challenge and ignite greater faith. Stretching us to live each day, no matter how spectacularly mundane, as if He is working a supernatural miracle. We may find ourselves simply standing in line at a checkout counter, but He is at work and others are watching. That thought alone messes up my hair.

~~~~~~~

Application:

When was the last time you felt God did not use you as you thought He should have? Have you ever taken the time to reevaluate the situation to see if He indeed used you but in a subtle more powerful way?

How do you view and respond to "women at the well" of our society today? Do you turn away, keep them at arms length, or reach out to them?

Take a moment to ask God how He can use you to touch someone today. After you've done this, ask Him to open your eyes to the subtle more artful ways your work will be extended to those around you. Then, sit back and trust you are a beautiful thread in this tapestry of life.

John Testifies Again About Jesus

John 3:22-36

"After this, Jesus and his disciples went out into the Judean countryside, where he spent some time with them, and baptized. 23 Now John also was baptizing at Aenon near Salim, because there was plenty of water, and people were coming and being baptized. 24 (This was before John was put in prison.) 25 An argument developed between some of John’s disciples and a certain Jew over the matter of ceremonial washing. 26 They came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, that man who was with you on the other side of the Jordan—the one you testified about—look, he is baptizing, and everyone is going to him.”

27 To this John replied, “A person can receive only what is given them from heaven. 28 You yourselves can testify that I said, ‘I am not the Messiah but am sent ahead of him.’ 29 The bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend who attends the bridegroom waits and listens for him, and is full of joy when he hears the bridegroom’s voice. That joy is mine, and it is now complete. 30 He must become greater; I must become less.”

31 The one who comes from above is above all; the one who is from the earth belongs to the earth, and speaks as one from the earth. The one who comes from heaven is above all. 32 He testifies to what he has seen and heard, but no one accepts his testimony. 33 Whoever has accepted it has certified that God is truthful. 34 For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit. 35 The Father loves the Son and has placed everything in his hands. 36 Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them.” NIV

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I’ve tried to watch a few times but invariably have to back away. Even terminal boredom from an empty docket fails to provide enough oomph to goad me through an entire episode. From the snippets I have endured, however, Bridezilla is a reality show about brides adamant that all wedding plans concentrate on her. Everyone else, family, friends, hired wedding personnel, and even the groom himself, are second to her and at her beckon call, no questions asked. Whenever the spotlight drifts away, she pitches a fit until she’s once again the center of attention. It’s a distressing commentary that’s much too sad for me to watch. (If you watch it don't feel bad, you're just stronger for the topic.)

My husband, a professional photographer, says his most miserable bride was one insatiably consumed with how she looked. Unable to meet her own impossible standards, this treasured time was polluted with her dismal self-centered attitude. While he nearly always comes home with amusing stories of each marriage celebration, this event was most glum as he helplessly watched her sabotage the day.

Brides aren’t the only ones temped to miss the heart of a matter. We, as the bride of Christ, can stray from focus as well. Take Simon the Sorcerer for example. “When Simon saw that the Spirit was given at the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money saying, “Give me also this ability so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” Acts 8:18-19

Peter answered: “May your money perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money! You have no part or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God. Repent of this wickedness and pray to the Lord in the hope that he may forgive you for having such a thought in your heart. For I see that you are full of bitterness and captive to sin.”

Verse 13 tells us that Simon of Samaria believed and was baptized. For all we know his confession of faith was genuine at the time, but being a bit of a Bridezilla himself, giving up the spotlight proved more than he could handle. He wasn't totally off the wall either because according to verses 9-11 he had a lot to give up,

“Now for some time a man named Simon had practiced sorcery in the city and amazed all the people of Samaria. He boasted that he was someone great, and all the people, both high and low, gave him their attention and exclaimed, “This man is rightly called the Great Power of God.” They followed him because he had amazed them for a long time with his sorcery.”

Simon had a corner office in the highest building in the city and wasn’t open for a downgrade. Using money to motivate the duo, he proposed a two-fold option to Peter and John designed to grant him a godly gift that would make him even more rich and popular. As a third party reader it all sounds too awful to comprehend, but how many times have we, the bride of Christ, attempt to embezzle honor that is rightfully God's? I don't know how many times the Lord has convicted my heart as I marvel at the talent of a Christian teacher or musician rather than the message He was conveying through them. Yes, they are great but He is the focus, never the talent in which He bestows. Then there are the legions of times I’ve attempted to pilfer a few kudos off work I’ve done for Him, failing to discern the Christian Brizedilla stirring in my own heart. Oh the shameful truth of it all. Please tell me you can relate.

The more I learn about John the Baptist the more I admire this last great Old Testament prophet. Paving the way for a new era in God's kingdom, he is truly one of a kind and as much as I've pondered all the men and women of the Bible, I still cannot come up with one more humble than this great forerunner. Many were humbled, but John was genuine from his inception. Having every reason to be seriously puffed with pride, he became less so that Christ could become greater. It convicts and comforts me all in one swoop and I can't wait to meet John in heaven one day. I don't know what he looks like but I'm pretty sure I know where to find him, at the foot of the throne where he's no doubt most comfortable.

Application:

As a member of the bride of Christ, do you suffer from any Bridezillian tendencies?

Name one area in your life where Christ must become greater and you must become smaller.

Like Simon the Sorcerer, have you ever attempted to bribe God for a personal gift or ability? What has been His response to your request?

Take a moment to thank God for our privileged position as His beautiful bride! May we live up to the position each day and in every way.

Jesus Teaches Nicodemus

John 3: 1-21 (NIV)

“1 Now there was a Pharisee, a man named Nicodemus who was a member of the Jewish ruling council. 2 He came to Jesus at night and said, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the signs you are doing if God were not with him.”

3 Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.”

4 “How can someone be born when they are old?” Nicodemus asked. “Surely they cannot enter a second time into their mother’s womb to be born!”

5 Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. 6 Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. 7 You should not be surprised at my saying, ‘You must be born again.’ 8 The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.”

9 “How can this be?” Nicodemus asked.

10 “You are Israel’s teacher,” said Jesus, “and do you not understand these things? 11 Very truly I tell you, we speak of what we know, and we testify to what we have seen, but still you people do not accept our testimony. 12 I have spoken to you of earthly things and you do not believe; how then will you believe if I speak of heavenly things? 13 No one has ever gone into heaven except the one who came from heaven—the Son of Man. 14 Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, 15 that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.”

16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. 19 This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. 20 Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. 21 But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God.”

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In my early teens I worked in a hospital with my mother. We worked together in the Recovery Room (the place patients wake up after surgery), which proved to be a great foundation for my career. The nurses and physicians were not only great people, but a wealth of knowledge during my years in nursing school. Several have turned into life-long friends whom I keep in contact with still today.

I smile as I ponder fond memories of one anesthesiologist in particular. A short older man with more salt than peppered hair, Dr. Melgard was the Alex Trebek of our post anesthesia unit. Not every time but at his random choosing, he'd accompany a patient into the unit, hand the patient over to the nurse, and meander over to the nurses desk. Reserved and unassuming, he'd capture our attention by quizzing us for a definition of some odd and obscure word. He'd choose words no average person ever heard let alone be able to define and I don't recall our ever knowing any of his words right off the bat, which is what made it so fun. We were all on the same playing field as we'd each pitch forth a hypothetical definition that seemed to fit by saying something like, "That sounds like a new fangled thing you'd wash your face with" or "That sounds like an exotic animal that lives in a tree along the Nile River." It was hilarious to hear all the descriptions our ignorant but well meaning minds would concoct. No one but Dr. Melgard knew the real answer and he never let on. Once we were done guessing he'd reveal the word's true definition, which invariably made our bizarre answers all the more comical. Dr. M was a warm, humble, and approachable man. He taught me no question was silly or stupid if I didn't know the answer, making me all the more likely to pick his brain for information. I love and miss Dr. Melgard. He was my personal Jeopardy host.

As Dr. Melgard made me feel welcome to approach, Jesus seemed to have the same affect on Nicodemus. I used to think Nicodemus' "Nic at Night" approach was more cowardly than courageous, but have since changed my mind. Yes, it's possible he was a coward, but it's also entirely plausible curiosity and conviction drew him to his long awaited Messiah. After all, he was a high ranking ruler of the Jews and coming to Jesus in broad day light could have sparked serious turmoil, whereas a nightly visit offered more privacy and less opposition from his fellow Jewish leaders. He sought truth over drama and I admire his gutsy wisdom to seek light in the midst of great darkness.

Nicodemus' few questions were met with a holy discourse and I suspect he left Jesus that night with his mind a whirl, faced with the daunting notion of a Spirit that is like a wind and the mind scorching vision of rebirth. (That one seemed to blow his mind most of all bless his heart.) Imagine the expression on his face as he walked through the inky black night. My mind's eye sees him traversing the terrain with a slow jerky gait, much like a mummy, with eyes wide as an owl's and jaw slightly ajar. You can't tell me the cloak of darkness wasn't his ally at this point in time.

This particular story doesn't state how Nicodemus received these words from Jesus this fateful night, but his later actions do. As a man of quiet power, he defended Jesus before the Jews as the Sanhedrin plotted to kill Him (John 7:25-52) and later teamed up with Joseph of Arimathea to provide 75 pounds of myrrh and aloes to prepare Jesus' body for burial. (John 19:38-42) He risked his life to defend Jesus in front of the Jewish leaders and later honor his Savior at His death and burial. This grants evidence that his stealthy visit did in fact change his heart forever. Choosing moonlight over the spot light, he followed Christ with exemplary faith, making me sorry I ever doubted this nocturnal scout.

Application:

What spiritual concept or life's circumstance perplexes your heart as much as Jesus's description of rebirth dumbfounded Nicodemus? Are you choosing to belief anyway?

Do you feel you can approach Jesus at any time and with any thing whether it's broad daylight or the middle of the night? If not, why not?

How do you defend and honor Christ in your life behind the scenes and out of the spotlight?

Jesus Clears the Temple

John 2:12-25

“12 After this he went down to Capernaum with his mother and brothers and his disciples. There they stayed for a few days.

13 When it was almost time for the Jewish Passover, Jesus went up to Jerusalem. 14 In the temple courts he found people selling cattle, sheep and doves, and others sitting at tables exchanging money. 15 So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple courts, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables. 16 To those who sold doves he said, “Get these out of here! Stop turning my Father’s house into a market!” 17 His disciples remembered that it is written: “Zeal for your house will consume me.”

18 The Jews then responded to him, “What sign can you show us to prove your authority to do all this?” 19 Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days.” 20 They replied, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and you are going to raise it in three days?” 21 But the temple he had spoken of was his body. 22 After he was raised from the dead, his disciples recalled what he had said. Then they believed the scripture and the words that Jesus had spoken.

23 Now while he was in Jerusalem at the Passover Festival, many people saw the signs he was performing and believed in his name. 24 But Jesus would not entrust himself to them, for he knew all people. 25 He did not need any testimony about mankind, for he knew what was in each person.”

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It's difficult to know where to begin since volumes could be written about this pocket of verses. We see terrible corruption in the temple (vs 14), a striking example of Christ's consuming zeal for the Lord's house (vs 17), the prophesy of His own death, burial, and resurrection (vs19), greater faith of the disciples as they witnessed the unfolding of this prophecy years later (vs 22), and Christ's deliberate act of entrusting Himself to God and never man (vs 23-25).

As one who strives to please others and keep the peace (except in the cases of injustice or abuse) verses 23-25 provide nourishment for my weary soul. To explain, let me say that as a general rule I get along with most everyone. I don't fight, debate, or push buttons, but rather seek middle ground and choose my battles very carefully. Lately, however, God has allowed (and I emphasize allowed because there is a lesson for me in this whole ordeal) a couple of acquaintances into my life that quite frankly don't like me one iota. One expresses dislike by completely ignoring me, while the other is extremely rude. Since both behaviors go against my nature with regards to how I'm used to being treated and choose to treat others, this experience has been a rather unpleasant and uncomfortable eye opener into humanity. Further fogging the issue, these are church going folk with whom I've never had an argument or disagreement. (I'll never understand.)

In cases where we feel unjustly treated and helpless to change the situation, I'm learning it's best to take the reigns in order to not feel the victim. That's why I cling to the final verses of John chapter two. Like a beacon in a nasty ill-mannered storm, they bind me safely to the truth of God. Notice how scripture points out whom Jesus did not entrust Himself to, it wasn't the Jews demanding miraculous signs in verse 18, that was a no brainer. It was those who believed in the miracles He performed (vs 23). Now, as a people pleaser this catches my eye because of all people, I'd have trusted the ones who believed. After all, wasn't their belief a good thing? They certainly weren't like the hard-headed Jews at the temple cheating the people out of their money. Why in the world, of all groups, did Jesus not trust the ones who believed after seeing His miraculous signs.

The answer is simple. He knew the hearts of the people. Dependent on what they saw rather than true conviction, Jesus knew their faith was weak and untrustworthy. Verse 25 reveals, "He knew what was in each person", which is to say He knew who was wicked and couldn't be trusted as well as those with good intensions but weak and unreliable. He entrusted Himself to no one but the Father, a wonderful lesson to those of us wishing to please the masses. We cannot please everyone nor should we try because when we do it takes our eyes of God and sets us up for failure, especially when it's supposed believers throwing the darts.

I'm still in the process of muddling through these baffling relationships as I try to release that which I don't understand. Truth is, times haven't change and people today are just as weird and unexplainable as they were in Jesus' time. Those who offend have histories and hurts that drive their behavior, most of which we'll never be privy to. There are some things we simply cannot change or resolve, which at the end of the day is God's job anyway. Our responsibility, especially mine for the time, is to focus on doing the right thing in order to please God. It may not make us popular but it will yield heavenly blessings of far greater value.

Application:

Are you a people pleaser? If so, are there areas of your life in which you compromise in order to appease?

Do you put your trust in certain individuals more than you do God? If so, what does this say about your heart?

What other insights do these verses reveal to your heart?

Jesus Changes Water to Wine

John 2:1-11

“On the third day a wedding took place at Cana in Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there, 2 and Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding. 3 When the wine was gone, Jesus’ mother said to him, “They have no more wine.”
4 “Woman, why do you involve me?” Jesus replied. “My hour has not yet come.”5 His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” 6 Nearby stood six stone water jars, the kind used by the Jews for ceremonial washing, each holding from twenty to thirty gallons. 7 Jesus said to the servants, “Fill the jars with water”; so they filled them to the brim. 8 Then he told them, “Now draw some out and take it to the master of the banquet.”
They did so, 9 and the master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine. He did not realize where it had come from, though the servants who had drawn the water knew. Then he called the bridegroom aside 10 and said, “Everyone brings out the choice wine first and then the cheaper wine after the guests have had too much to drink; but you have saved the best till now.”
11 What Jesus did here in Cana of Galilee was the first of the signs through which he revealed his glory; and his disciples believed in him."

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In a day where obtaining 15 minutes of fame is often top priority, it's easy to feel lost in the crowd, invisible, and unimportant. Perhaps that's why reality TV and social media is such a hot commodity. It's prime opportunity for those wishing to be seen.

I honestly don't know how anyone survives life without a heart's knowledge that God sees, loves, and is with them every second of every day because there are times in life that we are just plain alone. For example, have you ever had a day where you felt totally invisible? I've never figured out what triggers this but I've had days where it felt as though everyone from the store clerk to close acquaintance doesn't see or hear a thing I do. I speak and no one responds, as if totally invisible. It doesn't happen often but when it does it drives me nuts. I suspect these times are magnified by moods, hormones, or spiritual warfare designed to tear me down, so I ride them out on the coattails of God. Using Him as my divining rod I cling to the knowledge that though others may not acknowledge me (whether real or in my imagination), He loves me and is with me no matter my day's circumstance.

Upon reading today's passage I'm uplifted by the way it magnifies the insignificant. As friends and family of the crowd focused on the bride, groom, and the wedding celebration, who would guess God was about to reveal His glory to those on the periphery. A few profound subtleties include the fact this wedding miracle occurred in Cana, a rather obscure location which just so happened to be Nathanael's birth place. (John 21:2) Remember Nathanael was the one so stunned that the Messiah could come from despised Nazareth. Surely he would not have expected Jesus' first miracle to be performed in his hometown, at a wedding, through the hands of servants. Then there's the fact this glorious first miracle occurred in the background, inside six stone water jars standing off in a distance. According to verse 9 the first to be enlightened to this miracle where the servants who had obediently filled the jars with water. Imagine what they must have thought once realizing the water they had added to the jars had become the very best of wine. No doubt the sounds of the festive occasion around them dimmed dramatically as they commenced absorbing the miracle at hand.

Everywhere you look in this story the hand of God was at work where you'd least expect. No one could have predicted a more nebulous location or time for the Messiah's first miracle, let alone who He'd perform it through. God simply overlooks no one and uses even the smallest of beings to do His will and witness His majesty. This seemingly odd and backward way of working out His will may come across as odd or foreign, but it is highly affective. Note in verse 11 that upon witnessing this sideline miracle "his disciples put their faith in him." The unexpected, unexplainable, and unpredictable glory of God at work in lives of every day folk like you and me. Isn't it a relief to know we are not invisible or forgotten but rather loved by the God of the universe? If no one acknowledges us today, we know we're loved by a God too great for description, the great I AM. Let's rejoice and give Him the praise!

Application:

When was the last time you felt lost or forgotten?

Pinpoint one way in which God made His loving presence known to you in a time of loneliness.

How can you share with someone you know the truth that they are loved and valued by God?

Jesus Calls Philip and Nathanael

John 1:43-51 (NIV)

43 The next day Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, he said to him, “Follow me.” 44 Philip, like Andrew and Peter, was from the town of Bethsaida. 45 Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” 46 “Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?” Nathanael asked. “Come and see,” said Philip.

47 When Jesus saw Nathanael approaching, he said of him, “Here truly is an Israelite in whom there is no deceit.” 48 “How do you know me?” Nathanael asked. Jesus answered, “I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you.” 49 Then Nathanael declared, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the king of Israel.” 50 Jesus said, “You believe because I told you I saw you under the fig tree. You will see greater things than that.” 51 He then added, “Very truly I tell you, you will see ‘heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending on’ the Son of Man.”

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I remember when caller ID first came to our home. The phone rang and all I could do was stare at the little gray screen, flabbergasted I could see who was on the line before answering. Prior to this amazing technological advancement, it was anyone's guess. That's when prank calls were an adolescent's favorite summer break pass time. With anonymity as our ally, we could do just about anything and not get caught. Like the time I talked my friend into calling a local dance studio to inquire about dance classes. With my prompting from the background, she told the studio owner all about her interests in dance and such. After wasting a fair amount of the poor lady's time, my friend wrapped up the call by revealing one small glitch, she wore full-length leg braces. Asking if that would be a problem, the owner sat silent on the line as we burst into laughter. It was funny at the time but I'm ashamed of my behavior. For one thing I've matured a lot since then, plus I'd surely get caught thanks to caller ID. Dance studios are safe from me thanks to this little modern marvel that makes every dialer accountable for their actions.

Our passage today of Jesus calling his first few disciples is revolutionary, much like the dawning of caller ID. Not only did Christ invite certain men to follow Him, but these scripture verses reveal His ability to see deep into our hearts. Taken aback at Christ's statement that his heart held no deceit, Nathanael asked "How do you know me?" Unprepared for what Christ was about to reveal, Nathanael must have stood wide eyed and slack jawed as his identity was exposed for all to see.

"I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you" Jesus said, sending chills up Nathanael's spine. Not only had Jesus accurately read his heart, but He knew private details of his life. This knowledge of him under a tree held great significance because fig trees drooped very low to the ground. To be under one was like going to quiet hidden sanctuary. It was a perfect place to pray and commune with God, so having been under a fig tree would not have been a well known fact. It would have been a private and intimate detail known by few if any. Imagine going to work and being introduced to a total stranger who says, "I already know you. I saw you while you were praying this morning." It would catch your attention to say the least.

This supernatural exposure of Nathanael's pure heart and private life was the catalyst that drew him to Christ. While other hearts would have cringed and fallen away from this rather uncomfortable revealing, Nathanael's heart recognized its Savior and immediately followed. Questions of how the Son of God could come from a despised Nazareth vanished as faith propelled him forward to his call. With logic set aside, Nathanael headed into unchartered territory on the promise he'd one day "see heaven open and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man." A true Israelite in his own right, Nathanael would one day in turn bear witness to Israel's long-awaited Messiah, Jesus Christ!

Application:

Are there areas of your heart you feel you've kept from the eye of God?

Does knowing that God sees every part of your being (attitudes, agenda, motives etc.) propel or repel you from Him? What does this say about your heart?

If Christ were to reveal your heart's condition for all to see, would it be pleasing or convicting?

God promises us that a pure heart will see more of Him. What parts of your heart need a good cleaning?

Jesus' First Disciples

John 1:35-42 (NIV)

35 The next day John was there again with two of his disciples. 36 When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, “Look, the Lamb of God!”

37 When the two disciples heard him say this, they followed Jesus. 38 Turning around, Jesus saw them following and asked, “What do you want?”

They said, “Rabbi” (which means “Teacher”), “where are you staying?”

39 “Come,” he replied, “and you will see.”

So they went and saw where he was staying, and they spent that day with him. It was about four in the afternoon.

40 Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus. 41 The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ). 42 And he brought him to Jesus.

Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which, when translated, is Peter).

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Up to this point John the Baptist's ministry had been one consisting primarily of preparation. Both he and Jesus were close to the same age, having been born about six months apart according to Luke 1:35-37, which means he and our Savior were about 30 years old at the onset of their public ministry. As Jesus acquired the skill of carpentry at the hands of his earthly father Joseph, John the Baptist lived a solitary life alone in the desert where he received the "word of God" in relative isolation. (Luke 3:2)

Since John's parents, Zechariah and Elizabeth, were advanced in years at the time of his conception (Luke 1:7) many believe he was orphaned at a very young age. With this likely the case, John's upbringing casts hope to those in less than ideal family situations and new meaning to John 14:18, "I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you." While John did not have earthly parents at his side much of his adult life, God came to him in the desert in order to prepare him for a mighty work. What a vivid image of God's all-seeing eye and everlasting love. No one, even those in a vast wasteland, are out of His reach. In fact, it is often in the most barren times of life that we experience personal teaching at the hand of God. A truly unexplainable paradox that only God can orchestrate.

This first chapter of the gospel of John offers great insight into how John the Baptist's life suddenly changed from a barren desert existence to a teeming ministry. No longer an eccentric orphan, his voice was now well heard, he had a following, and his call was in full motion. As one born to pave the way to Christ, these verses chronicle John's leading of the first two chosen to trod this new road, Andrew and his brother Peter. Obedient to their own call, these fishermen's hearts were primed and ready to meet Jesus. Little did they know they were the first of twelve chosen to tip the world on its ear.

There is a lot to be said for the obscure and quiet seasons of life. Often feeling like a waste of time, they are in fact opportune wedges of time designed to prepare us for greater things. As Jesus shaped wood, John endured life in the desert, and Peter and Andrew fished on the sea, God choreographed everyday life in just such a way to prepare this chosen crew for a great and mighty work. With quiet godly existences as their firm foundation, these ordinary lives were now prepared to follow Christ and endure all that would come with this commitment. May we follow Christ diligently each day as well.

Application:

Think of a segment of your life that qualifies as a desert. What did you learn during that time you could not have learned any other way?

Perhaps you feel like an orphan in some fashion. If so, God promises to meet you where you are. Can you identify His presence as your Father?

Being rooted in sound doctrine is vital no matter our season of life. How are you staying rooted in God's word today?

Jesus the Lamb of God

John 1:29-34 (NIV)

"29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! 30 This is the one I meant when I said, ‘A man who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’ 31 I myself did not know him, but the reason I came baptizing with water was that he might be revealed to Israel.”

32 Then John gave this testimony: “I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him. 33 And I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ 34 I have seen and I testify that this is God’s Chosen One.”

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My husband recently went to court to give his account as witness to an accident. Many cars were on the highway at the time of the crash but only Jimmy and another man stopped to help the victim. When it came time to go to court the other witness didn't show, making Jimmy's testimony vital to the case. Without at least one testimony the case would have been tossed out of court, which would have been a tragedy for the pregnant woman who had been run off the road.

It doesn't take a legion of witnesses to bring truth to the surface, one simple account makes all the difference in the world. Just one solid testimony can stand against a multitude of lies and withstand the test of time because no matter how you look at it, truth always makes the most sense, it speaks well for itself, and is easiest to remember. Any embellisher, no matter how good, will eventually say just enough to paint themselves into a corner and launch red flags horizon to horizon. Speaking the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth is always best policy.

The life of Christ continues to transform lives today thanks to the testimonies of a only a handful of humble believers. Often out numbered and physically overpowered, their witness of how Jesus changed their lives continues to stand firm today. I don't know about you but it gives me great comfort to know I don't have to be wealthy, well known, or possess great power in the world to make an impact for Christ. A simple life dedicated to God can be a powerful and pleasing testimony that will outlive any years we may live on earth.

It's interesting to note these verses mention that the very day after John the Baptist denied being the Christ, he was given opportunity to testify that Jesus was the true Messiah. Not 24 hours after pointing the people's eyes away from himself, he had opportunity to direct them to Christ. This teaches us the important principle that when we keep our hearts and minds focused on our God-given call, God-given opportunities to testify will naturally come our way. Just as Jimmy was in the right place at the right time to witness that accident, he was subsequently given opportunity to present truth on behalf of an innocent victim. To have witnessed without also testifying would have been a cruel waste. But just one testimony brings truth to light, justice to the innocent, and glory to God!

Application:

Name one area of your life that gives testimony to Christ.

How do your words, actions, and thoughts line up with the truths of God?

When was the last time you pointed someone to Messiah?

John the Baptist Denies Being the Christ

John 1: 19-28 (NIV)

“19 And this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, "Who are you?" 20 He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, "I am not the Christ." 21 And they asked him, "What then? Are you Elijah?" He said, "I am not." "Are you the Prophet?" And he answered, "No." 22 So they said to him, "Who are you? We need to give an answer to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?" 23 He said, "I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, 'Make straight the way of the Lord,' as the prophet Isaiah said."

24 Now they had been sent from the Pharisees. 25 They asked him, "Then why are you baptizing, if you are neither the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?" 26 John answered them, "I baptize with water, but among you stands one you do not know, 27 even he who comes after me, the strap of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie." 28 These things took place in Bethany across the Jordan, where John was baptizing.”

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He must have seemed so Christ-like that to mistake him as the Messiah required little effort. Dressed in unusual apparel for the day, John the Baptist wore clothes made of camel's hair and ate locusts and wild honey. Many who went out of their way to travel into the hot desert to see him ended up repenting of their sins and being baptized. The whole scenario bore an unmistakable resemblance to the prophetic words of Isaiah 40:3, "A voice of one calling in the desert, Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him." It's no wonder so many thought he was the Messiah.

For many this mistake in identity would be a sure prescription for puffed pride, but John the Baptist took no credit of his own. Instead, he unequivocally denied being the Messiah, never once intentionally misleading anyone. After all, to take any of the glory would have been a sin and with the Spirit's wisdom firmly planted in him before birth (Luke 1:41), John understood his role in God's kingdom plan was to guide men to Christ and never himself.

Humble and true to his summons, John's Spirit-filled passion projected so much of Christ that he was mistaken for the holy One. What an honor it would have been to have seen this great man of God in action. Confronting corruption while paving the way for the Messiah, sometimes all in the same breath. What a show stopper. I can only hope that perhaps in heaven, once the popcorn is served, God will press the rewind button back to the days of Christ and give us a bird's eye view of the acts of this man Jesus Himself described as the greatest born among all women. (Matt 11:11/Luke 7:28)

John the Baptist's humility convicts me something awful. I'm quite sure I was not chosen to pave the way for God's Son because my pride would be a huge stumbling block. Of course John wasn't perfect, only Jesus lived a sinless life, but the Bible speaks of nothing but good about Jesus' relative and forerunner. His story is one of impeccable performance that inspires me to become a better person, one more focused on Christ. We'll learn more about John the Baptist in the days to come and one thread we'll see throughout his life is one of a humble man supremely focused on God, even unto death. May we instill this mission in our heart's and lives as well.

Application:

As you read about John the Baptist in these verses, which of his characteristics do you admire most? Humility? Passion? Focus? Something else?

Are there any areas in your life where you might be stealing a bit of glory that belongs to God?

How can you better focus your life on the calling God has for you?

The Word Became Flesh

John 1:1-18 (NIV)

"1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning.

3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

6 There was a man sent from God whose name was John. 7 He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. 8 He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.9 The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.

10 He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. 11 He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. 12 Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— 13 children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.

14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

15 John testified concerning him. He cried out, saying, “This is the one I spoke about when I said, ‘He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’” 16 Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. 17 For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known.”

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I recently purchases two fleece tops, one soft pink and the other vibrant turquoise. I was tempted to buy more but since I can only wear one at a time, I limited myself to two. They fit perfectly in every way. The sleeves aren't too short, they don't tussle my hair when I pull them over my head, and they're soft as a cloud. In a word they are nothing but comfortable.

We all naturally seek comfort. When my lips are dry I apply lip balm, if I'm hot I seek shade, and when I'm cold I reach for one of my fleece tops. No one has to be taught to avoid pain or discomfort, we automatically recoil from discomfort. Perhaps that's why I'm drawn to John's gospel introduction. It oozes assurance. At a glance six things envelop me like a warm quilt. Let's take a peek.

1. Jesus is God eternal (vs 1-2)
2. Jesus made all things (vs 3-5)
3. Jesus came to us (vs 10)
4. Jesus gave us free will (vs 11)
5. Because Christ dwelled among us and died on the cross, those who believe in Him have the Holy Spirit living inside them (vs 14)
6. Through Jesus we can see God the Father (15-18)

Simply put, Jesus our eternal God and creator came to us so that we might see and know God the Father. Being God in flesh He is our example of how to live a life worthy and honorable to God. As we walk in the Spirit we not only receive abundant blessings, but grant comfort to others who see God in us, allowing them to make their own choice whether or not to follow.

I shutter to think of our destiny had Christ not come to our aid. What a comfort to know salvation has come to show us the way. May we give Jesus all the praise and honor and glory for what He has done and may we rest in the assurance that God loves us, He is faithful, just and true, and will never leave us alone in this world.

Application:

What one word would you use to describe these first verses of John?

How do these verses reveal more of Jesus to you?

Which verse do you desire to plant deeply in your heart this day?

The Book of John

One of the most comforting books of the Bible is the book of John. Known as the book of love penned by James younger brother and youngest disciple John, it resides in a class all its own. With a transformation that must have given John whiplash, this once prejudice young "son of thunder" grew into an elderly man best known for his abundant love and compassion. Second to Jesus I'm most eager to meet John, the one whom Jesus so dearly loved.

With 2011 underway, we are closer than ever to our Lord's coming. As we wait His return we're called to be vigilant and alert. One way to "stay awake" is to study His word, even if it's only a little each day. I plan to remain rooted in God's Word by blogging my way through this beloved book. What better way to remain positive in a dark world than to focus on the love of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It's a must for daily survival.

Each week or so I'll make an entry that will cover one segment of each of the 21 chapters. I've long since learned that speed is not the key to learning the truths of God. It's much better to take a small bite, mull it over, and digest it gradually to gain the most benefit. Reading the Bible in a year is a great overview but once that's done, studying one chapter or segment of a chapter per day or week is highly beneficial as well. Just as the rabbit focuses on speed to cross the finish line, the tortoise uses stamina and determination to accomplish the same result. Both cross the line but through different means. The rabbit may finish first but is sure to miss much of the scenery along the way. The tortoise, on the other hand, finishes later but gains different insight of the landscape on his journey. Neither is right or wrong. They are simply different ways to arrive at the same destination, each offering what the other cannot.

Feel free to tag along as I travel through the gospel of John. We won't travel at warp speed but we won't grind to a halt either. A nice steady pace is the goal, just fast enough to see the sights and take pictures along the way. Each entry will have scripture included which will generally be New International Version (NIV). I'll point out meaningful things I see and offer points to ponder and encourage you to do the same. In my mind the Word of God is like a mirror ball on a dance floor. One slight move in any direction reflects new insight impossible to see a fraction of an inch away. While I may glean one thing from a verse, you may see something totally new and different. That's the beauty of God's Word. It's alive and active, touching us right where we are at any given moment. With this in mind I encourage your input. It'll enrich the journey all the more.

I look forward to traveling with you!