John 18:33-38
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. If you haven’t read the Introduction to John’s Gospel, read it here.
Read John 18:33-38 slowly and thoughtfully noticing any emotional response you have.
This “conversation” between Jesus and the Roman governor, Pilate, encapsulates the essence of Jesus’ earthly ministry. His kingdom is not simply a threat to the authority of Rome, his kingdom is the realm where God reigns supreme over every living creature. It is the kingdom in which justice and truth exist equally for all people under the good, shalom rule and way of God.
When we pray the Lord’s Prayer, we ask for God’s kingdom to be made manifest on the earth just as it is in the heavenly realms. Stop to contemplate the first phrases of this prayer that Jesus gave his disciples in Matthew’s Gospel, and when you feel ready, pray it out to God.
“Our Father in heaven,
may your name be kept holy.
May your Kingdom come soon.
May your will be done on earth,
as it is in heaven (Matthew 6:9-10).”
Read John 18:33-38 again focusing on Jesus’ reply to Pilate’s question, “What is truth?”
There is a difference between gathering facts in order to be right and seeking to understand the nature of truth. Pilate asks the bigger question. Instead of focusing on the missing facts of the “accusation” against Jesus, Pilate’s question hints at the echoes of the image of God in his own soul. If only he would recognize that the answer is standing in front of him.
Jesus is the embodiment of truth and life. This is what he said when Thomas asked how the disciples would know where Jesus had gone. Jesus’ life and words testify to the existential essence of truth. To know Jesus is to know truth. Even though we don’t see the whole picture, we can rest in Jesus knowing that he will always guide us on the paths of truth and life if we remain in him.
What do you think or how do you feel about this? Take a moment to examine your desire to gather facts to know the truth as compared to your dependence on Jesus to be your truth.
Become still and allow yourself to recognize the living presence of Jesus with you now. If random thoughts come, recognize them, and then let them float away. Stay here as long as you need.
As you end this time of meditation, consider these questions:
What do you sense Jesus saying to you today?
What will you do in response?
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The Everyday Jesus Follower’s Guide ebook can help you learn how to recognize God's voice, how to read and understand the Bible, how to develop deep spiritual friendships, and how to become the person you were meant to be. Use it alone, with a friend or in a small group.
