John 12:12-19
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.
Before you read today’s passage, imagine that you are among those who have come to Jerusalem to celebrate Passover. Possibly you are a resident of the region of Galilee and were part of the crowd Jesus fed by the lake. Or you might live in or around Jerusalem and you might have witnessed of one of Jesus’ miraculous acts. Or perhaps you are from Bethany and you were there when Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead.
Choose one of the perspectives above or choose another perspective from what we have read in John so far. Then read John 12:12-19 as if you are part of the crowd by the road as Jesus enters Jerusalem.
The news of Jesus’ arrival in the center of religious power has swept through the city, and massive crowds line the road to hail the one they believe will overturn unjust authorities and foreign oppressors. Along the road they wave symbols of a victory as they shout, “Hosanna” (literally, “Save now”). But instead of the powerful steed of a conquering warrior, this hero rides a humble donkey colt. So intent is the crowd on making him king that they overlook the symbolism. It’s clear that none of these fans of Jesus has the slightest notion that in just a few days the body of the conqueror will be nailed to a Roman cross in what appears to be total defeat.
Stop for a moment to consider how you think about Jesus. Do you think of him as a good person? A distant divine figure? Something else? Talk openly and honestly with Jesus about this.
Read John 12:12-19 again focusing on what John tells us about Jesus’ disciples.
In spite of Jesus’ teaching and example, even his disciples fail to make the connection between what they have seen in the Scriptures and the actions of Jesus that fulfill those Scriptures. Only when their current paradigm of a conquering hero crumbles at the cross will they begin to understand.
The disciples want to be part of a revolution. The crowds want a hero who will free them from oppression. The religious authorities just want Jesus to stop upsetting the delicate balance of power they have established with their Roman occupiers.
What do you want Jesus to be or do? Think about this as honestly as possible and then discuss your thoughts openly with Jesus.
What would it be like to simply let Jesus be who he is and follow him whole-heartedly? Imagine this for a moment or two and talk to Jesus about it.
As you end this time of reflection, get quiet and do your best to listen to Jesus. If you sense that he is calling you toward an action of any kind, commit to a first step today.
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