John 12:35-36
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.
Today’s passage is the last of Jesus’ comments to those who sought him out through Philip and Andrew. Remember that a crowd has now gathered and has expressed disbelief in Jesus’ identity as the Messiah based on their erroneous understanding of Scripture. Read John 12:35-36 slowly a couple of times taking note of anything that stands out to you.
Even in the face of disbelief, Jesus extends an invitation, and there is an urgency and even a pleading quality to his words. He will soon be arrested, tried in a kangaroo court and executed. But in spite of his knowledge of the coming betrayal, his heart is broken for those who choose to continue stumbling along in darkness unaware that the light of life is available to them.
Stop to consider your everyday life for a moment. How aware were you of Jesus as you moved through the events of last week? Choose a couple of specific events from last week and imagine the light of Jesus illuminating your mind and heart as you mentally reenact the events. What might have gone differently if you had been fully aware of Jesus in those events, or what might Jesus want you to realize about his presence with you in that event?
Talk to Jesus about this.
Read John 12:35-36 again picturing the images Jesus uses to convey his warning and invitation.
Sit with the following images from this passage for a moment and let them sink in:
“Walk in the light…”
“…so the darkness will not overtake you”
“Those who walk in darkness cannot see where they are going…”
“Put your trust in the light…”
“…you will become children of the light”
What do you sense Jesus saying to you through these images?
None of us know how much time we have left to live on this earth. While we are here, we need the light of Jesus to illuminate our understanding of Scripture and to light our way every day. When we trust him to be our light, we begin to reflect him to those around us.
How is Jesus inviting you to become a child of the light today? What will you do about that?
Subscribe here to receive these guided meditations free by email Monday-Friday each week. If you find these meditations helpful, please forward them to a couple of friends.
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.
