Lenten Readings: John 7

Lenten Readings: The two-year Bible reading plan puts the Gospel accounts of Luke and John right between Ash Wednesday and Easter. Whether you're doing the reading plan or not, you can follow along on the blog and read daily meditations based on the accounts of Jesus, whose life and death we remember and cherish during this season of Lent. Check back every day starting on February 14 and until Easter Saturday.

Saturday, March 17, 2018
READ John 7
MEDITATE on John 7:15, "The Jews therefore marveled, saying, 'How is it that this man has learning, when he has never studied?'" The people impressed with Jesus' teaching and power, but were confused by his identity. How is that still true today?

REFLECT
Today is St. Patrick's Day, and many are happy to be considered Irish (whether in fact or in fiction). What does it mean to be Christian today? If you tell people you are a Christian, what do they think of you? The people in John 7 did not want to be associated with Jesus, but they believed in him, in his authority, his teaching, and his power. But many still were afraid of "the Jews," meaning those in authority.

But Jesus' identity hasn't changed. And popular opinion may never be in a Christian's favor, though it felt that way in this country for a time. In academic circles, in pop culture, even just among your peers, if you follow Jesus' teachings, if you pursue holiness, righteousness, justice, and mercy, if you go to church, read your Bible, and pray faithfully, you may not be popular.

But when someone has trouble and is in need of help, you know the One who offers words of life, grace, hope, and love. We all need Jesus. A Christian lives acknowledging that need and gives us false hopes and idols to walk with the God who saves us.

PRAY

Pray for humble acknowledgement of who Jesus is and who we are in him. Pray for three people today who do not know Jesus. Pray for your witness to them.