John 9-13

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

Believe in the Exceptional Savior

It's amazing how a short, carefully crafted piece of paper can stand between you and employment in a competitive job market. What makes your résumé stand out from the crowd? What qualifications or work history would "seal the deal" and get you that new job?

In this week's readings, we'll see Jesus' extraordinary qualifications on display. But unfortunately, despite all his marvelous works, he continues to face rejection at every turn.

Jesus the Healer

On Monday (John 9), Jesus passes a man born blind. And after spitting on the ground to make some mud, he rubs the man's eyes, tells him to wash in the pool of Siloam, and he returns with his sight (John 9:6-7)! Everyone was shocked at his healing, but the Pharisees were skeptical. After questioning the man and his parents, they cast him out of the synagogue (John 9:13-34).

Why wasn't the blind man's healing enough to convince the religious leaders?

Jesus the Shepherd

On Tuesday (John 10), Jesus addresses the Pharisees. He calls himself "the good shepherd" who brings abundant life, laying down his life for the sheep (John 10:11). Unlike the hired hand who runs at the sight of danger, he's committed to protecting his flock (John 10:13). He says that "I and the Father are one," (John 10:30), which almost pushes the Jews to stone him for blasphemy.

Are you listening to the Shepherd's voice?

Jesus the Resurrection

On Wednesday (John 11), Jesus' good friend Lazarus gets sick and dies (John 11:1-16). Martha and Mary — Lazarus' sisters — come to get Jesus. And after he tells them that their brother will rise again, he says, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live" (John 11:25). And when Jesus calls him to come out of the tomb, Lazarus walks out – four days after his death (John 11:38-44)!

How does Jesus' reaction to Lazarus' death help you connect with him?

Jesus the King

On Thursday (John 12), Mary anoints Jesus with oil in Bethany (John 12:1-8) before entering Jerusalem on a donkey. The crowds praise him, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!" (John 12:13). He prepares the crowds for his upcoming death (John 12:20-36), and though many still wouldn't believe (John 12:37-43), he reiterated his mission to save the world (John 12:47).

Why do you think the people went from shouting "Hosanna!" to "Crucify him!" in only a few days?

Jesus the Servant

Finally, on Friday (John 13), Jesus retreats from the crowds for an intimate Passover meal with his disciples. He washes all their feet in a shocking turn, showing them an example of what real service looks like (John 13:1-12). He tells them to "love one another just as I have loved you" (John 13:34). But there's already trouble among them, as Judas will soon betray him (John 13:21-30), and Peter will soon deny him (John 13:36-38).

Does Jesus washing Judas' feet impact how you treat those who hurt you?

Job 18-32

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

In Job 18-32, the narrative shifts as Job's friends intensify their accusations, claiming that his suffering results from personal sin. Bildad, Zophar, and Eliphaz articulate conventional wisdom, asserting a direct correlation between wrongdoing and divine punishment. Throughout these chapters, Job fiercely defends his integrity, steadfastly maintaining he is innocent of such charges. The dialogues evolve into profound philosophical inquiries, with Job voicing his desire for an audience with God to plead his case. He explores the themes of justice, the inscrutability of God's ways, and the human condition. As the discussion deepens, it raises crucial questions about the nature of righteousness and God's governance of the world. This section continues to illuminate the struggle with faith amid suffering, challenging readers to reconsider their perceptions of justice and divine involvement in human affairs.

Psalm 119:121-176, 120

REFLECTING ON THE PSALMS

Psalm 119:121-176 continues the profound meditation on the psalmist’s unwavering commitment to God’s Word, emphasizing its role as a steadfast guide through life’s trials. The psalmist seeks justice against oppressors, reflecting a yearning for God’s deliverance based on His promises. This section underscores the importance of obedience and the transformative power of God's ordinances. The psalmist's expressions of anguish reveal a heart deeply troubled by sin and the desire for redemption. Through appeals for understanding and insight, the psalmist affirms that true comfort is found in adhering to God’s teachings. The passage ultimately champions the blessings bestowed upon those who diligently follow God’s commandments, illustrating the contrast between the faithful and the wicked, while encouraging believers to seek a deeper relationship with Scripture for guidance and support against life's adversities.

Week 42