John 11
Earlier today I made a quick pass through my FB news feed. I read a post from someone who was just disgusted by closed minded people. Those who only quote others and stand firm in their biases and opinions. He then went on to say that the characteristic all of these people have, and he did say ALL, was they also professed to be Christians. Ugggghhhh!! That kind of comment can just fry me. I want to just say something to counter his comment, something that leaves him speechless. I’m a Christian and I know lots of Christians who are working very hard to build bridges, have the hard conversations, listen to others life stories, lead in repentance and reconciliation.
As I thought about it, I’m just more fried by those who profess to be Christians and speak such harsh thoughts and opinions. And instead of posting, responding or dwelling on my feelings, I went to my Bible and began to read.
In John 11 we read about a miracle. Lazarus had been dead and in the grave for 4 days! 4 days! Jesus comes and calls him out. Lazarus rises from death and walks out of the tomb! This was a miracle that “the Son of God would receive glory” verse 4. In verse 45 we read that “many of the people believed in Jesus who saw this happen.” But you know what, even after witnessing this miracle, some went to the Pharisees to tell what they saw (verse 46). It was there that they decided that they could not allow Him, Jesus, to continue, people might believe Him. In verse 53 we read that it ‘was from that time on the Jewish leaders began to plot Jesus’ death.”
Jesus response to all this, “He stopped His public ministry in among the people and left Religious and non-religious people did not believe Him. He knew what His purpose was, and He continued forward and began to prepare. He didn’t have to set anyone straight. He didn’t allow comments and opinions to affect Him in a way that would be misunderstood or reek of criticism, judgment and pride. He moved on and continued doing what He was called to.
What have I learned today from this chapter in John and how can I apply it to my life today?
- There has been and there will always be those who don’t believe and won’t hear.
- As Christians, we will often fall short and misrepresent Christ. None of us are perfect and we must DAILY look to His Word for guidance and correction.
- And finally, God has called me with a purpose. I just need to move forward and continue doing the things He has called me. I can’t be distracted by what others say..
My response to the FB post I mentioned in the first paragraph shouldn’t be one to leave Him speechless. I shouldn’t even allow it to fry me to be frustrated and angry. My response should be one that leads me to prayer and repentance. My response should be from a place of love and not of setting someone straight. This kind of talk against Christians has been around since Jesus walked the earth and you know what, He still gave His life for all!
I pray today for a greater love for all mankind. I pray to see each person as Jesus sees them and to love them unconditionally right where they are. I repent for inconsistencies in my life, for those biases I fail to see and for misrepresenting Christ with my emotional opinions. Lord, continue working on my heart creating a pure and clean heart. Give me clear understanding of my purpose and plan for my life. Give me courage to walk it out and to love my neighbor. Amen.
What is God saying to you today? Share your thoughts and insights from John 11 in the comment section below.