Wednesday 27 March 2024
Then Jesus cried aloud: 'Whoever believes in me believes not in me but in him who sent me. And whoever sees me sees him who sent me.' (vs 44-45)
Background
To believe or not to believe. That was the question – and still is for many today.
A lot happens in chapter 12 of John's Gospel. Prior to today's passage, we read about Mary anointing Jesus' feet with pricey oil (vs 1-3); Judas questioning the use of the oil (vs 4-6); Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem (vs 12-15); Jesus speaking about his death (vs 27-33); and Jesus’ recognition of the people’s unbelief.
It is no wonder that after this Jesus retires (v. 36). In verses 37-41, the words of Isaiah reveal the extent of people's unbelief despite all the miracles Jesus performed. There are clearly numerous reflections to be had, but the question is, just how much more did Jesus have to do before people believed he was the son of God?
We live in very trying times as we deal with the after-effects of the pandemic, wars across the world, natural disasters and the effects of climate change – with poorest countries being the hardest hit. For some, such disasters have affected their belief in God and the Church.
A little bit of history: in his article A Light in Darkness (The Whitechapel Herald April 1924), the Revd Thomas Jackson writes about the challenges of the day and how the Mission sought to address the needs of the poor and educate society. It is good to read about their efforts to serve God and help the community, but it is sad to know that today poverty still remains a feature of our society.
A second growing question is: what is God asking of us that we are not hearing?
The prophet Amos (chapters 1-2) warns of the judgment and punishment of Israel, Judah and their neighbours. In Exodus, we are introduced to the commandments (Exodus 20:1-17). They are the rules that shape how we live with each other and form our relationship with God. But then came Jesus, who simply said "I do not judge anyone who hears my words and does not keep them, for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world.” (v. 47). What does this mean for us? We have Scripture and theological exploration to assist our understanding and belief of Jesus and his offer to save the world. But we also have free will and therefore the option to accept or reject Jesus' offer.
The lyrics of the hymns 'When My Love to Christ Grows Weak' (John R. Wreford, 1837), and 'Begone Unbelief! My Saviour is near' (John Newton, 1779) seek to demonstrate how trust in God can take us from a place of unbelief and turmoil to belief and peace. Our belief is shaped by our life experiences, but we remember that Jesus came to save and provides a light that no darkness can ever extinguish.
To Ponder:
- How would you help others to explore their position of belief? And how might their responses affect you?
- "I do not judge anyone who hears my words and does not keep them, for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world.” (v. 47) What does this mean for parts of the world where there is war and injustice? What does it mean for you?
Prayer
God of love, all things are possible with you. We thank you for your light and continue to pray that it will be used as the torch by which we are guided to believe in your saving grace. Amen.
Bible notes author: Deacon Theresa Simons-Sam
Theresa Simons-Sam is a minister serving in the Tower Hamlets Circuit in London.