My third-grade year, our school performed the operetta Pinocchio. Students could audition for parts, and of course, additional parts were created so as many as possible could participate. I, along with two or three other girls, were sunbeams. We sang a song with a little dance, as I recall. When…
Understanding who Jesus is reveals his ultimate purpose, to give glory to God the Father. As believers, God’s adopted children, we inherit this same role. “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord” (Psalm 150:6). Read John 8:42-47. The Jews claimed God was their Father. But Jesus had pointed out…
Life is about choices. Banana or muffin for breakfast? How shall we use unexpected free time? More than one option may be acceptable. Some choices carry more weight, not only in an eternal sense, but how we live our daily lives. Read John 8:31-36. Jesus’ followers are those who hold…
Jesus often exhorted his audience—followers, curious bystanders, Jewish leaders—to truly listen and hear what he said. Many times during his ministry, he explained who he was and his relationship to the Father. Read John 8:12-18. Jesus reminded people he was indeed the light John proclaimed earlier and the light gives…
In other gospel passages, Jesus asked his disciples “who do you say I am?” Even though Jesus didn’t ask the question in this passage, it’s almost implied as an undercurrent. Throughout his earthly ministry, those who encountered Jesus wrestled with who he was, how he affected their lives, and how…
Such depths in these verses! Jesus taught about knowing God, seeking his truth, our hearts, and the Holy Spirit’s role in believers’ lives. How do we apply these things as we go about daily tasks? This week more than once I’ve experienced asking God a (simple) question, and he answers….
As I reflect on this passage, I feel as if I’m sitting at Jesus’ feet, learning from him. Then, just like when I (will) attend summer writing conference in little more than a week, I need quiet time to reflect on how to apply what I’ve heard. My friend Janet…
Jesus’ words and actions in this passage demonstrate God’s carefully planned and orchestrated agenda concerning revealing the mystery of Jesus’ sacrificial ministry. We observe a contrast between mystery and secrecy and open disclosure. Jesus revealed this great mystery literally one step at a time throughout his earthly life. Paul explained…
May God’s Holy Spirit shine his light and connect the threads as we continue to read Jesus’ teaching about the Spirit and life in Jesus, God’s Son. Read John 6:60-65. The disciples said Jesus’ teaching was harsh and offensive. They struggled to accept the teaching on eating Jesus’ flesh and…
Yes, we left off reading in the middle of a paragraph a couple weeks ago. Jesus said so many profound things in this teaching, we can’t comprehend all at once, no matter where we start or stop reading. As Jesus said earlier in his ministry, every word [sentence, verse] that…