Tuesday December 29, 2020

Today’s Reading: John 12:37-43

Nevertheless, many did believe in Him even among the rulers, but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, so they would not be banned from the synagogue. 

John 12:42

Reflection: Live to please God. When Jesus performed signs and wonders in the presence of people, there were many who did not believe in Him. Some did not believe because they refused to see what was happening before their eyes. Others saw and understood, but refused to confess Jesus for Who He revealed Himself to be. These people lived for the approval of people rather than the approval of God.

It is one thing to be kept from seeing a light in the darkness. It is quite another thing to see light and willingly turn away one’s gaze from it to instead pursue darkness. While the Light of the World had shown Himself to the religious leaders, some believed in Him but refused to confess their belief and follow Him. These chose to remain in darkness without Jesus.

It can be a difficult thing confess Jesus publicly in a world that is getting increasingly dark around us. But it is in the depths of darkness that the Light is seen more clearly. Confessing and following Jesus is the way to please Him. It is not enough to believe in Who He is. For our Lord tells us that even the demons believe there is one God, and tremble. Those who come to understand His Divine Messiahship are called to confess and follow Him. Because darkness and Light cannot coexist, we must choose one or the other. And our choice must be made not just once, but constantly. Whose approval we will seek: that of people, or that of the Lord Almighty? For those of us who have come to understand Who Jesus is, let us take the opportunity to please Him by following after Him.

Prayer: Lord God, Your Divine Nature and Character are unfathomable. You are far above me, O Lord, and yet You have revealed much of Yourself in ways that I can at least begin to understand. You have made ways for me to comprehend Your Holiness and Your Love. Thank You Lord. I pray that You help me to seek Your approval in the decisions I make. Show me how to give You all the Glory with my daily choices. Show me how to reflect Your Truth to others. Help me to give You the total praise that You deserve. In Jesus’ Name I pray, AMEN.

Thru the Bible in a year (credit: Biblestudytools.com): John 12:27-50; 2 Chronicles 16-17; Psalm 78:1-20