Day 72, John 12
We read the account of Palm Sunday from Mark yesterday (Mark’s account is believed to be the earliest record). Today, John gives us his testimony of the events of that day and the early parts of the climactic week of Jesus’ earthly ministry.
As befits the disciple Jesus loved, John has plenty of intimate insights that expand our revelation of Jesus’ relationship with the Father, and His power to transform lives.
First, we glimpse the power of relationship. Jesus is likely staying in Bethany each night with His friends Mary, Martha and Lazarus. This is a safe place for Him in the days before His final clash with the powers of religion and government. Here, Mary expresses devotion to her friend with costly sacrificial love. Her example has been followed by countless lovers of Jesus in the centuries since. The reaction of greed and control (in the person of Judas the locksmith) has always been the same: criticize sacrificial love, and deflect attention by false piety.
Next, John captures the way that miracles draw people to Jesus: The crowd want to see Lazarus because he was resurrected, as well as Jesus. Do you see the significant parallel here? The proof of resurrection is both the doorway to faith for many, and the final, death-dealing straw for the religious. John is very honest when he tells us that the disciples (himself included) did not understand what was taking place until after the resurrection and ascension. Even the ungodly Pharisees prophesy in the wave of revival fervor that sweeps Jesus into Jerusalem, saying “You’ve lost your place of influence. The whole world is going to run after Him”!
Then foreign converts to Judaism seek out Jesus, in another fulfillment of prophecy (this time in Isaiah 55). All this supernatural confirmation of the coming victory causes Jesus to explain about the one grain falling into the ground, dying, then sprouting and producing a great harvest. This is about to be fulfilled. And God speaks audibly in confirmation. Jesus did not need this for Himself, but it was to help others believe.
And that help was clearly needed, because John records the unbelieving presumption of many in the crowd. They quote scripture to support their desired outcome: the Messiah will rule forever. But many who quote scripture are proved wrong when God’s purpose unfolds! These are those whose certainty blinds them as Isaiah prophesied. And alongside those who were certain and wrong, were those who believed and were afraid to say so, for fear of the Sanhedrin.
And John concludes this chapter with Jesus’ final public declaration: I have not come to judge you but to save you. The Father’s commands result in eternal life and I am speaking what He is saying.
Let’s be bold in following, and clear in hearing what Father is saying and doing. As He does miracles, many are ready to follow and believe!
Have a great day!
Mark.