Wednesday 31 March 2021
- Bible Book:
- John
'I have come as light into the world, so that everyone who believes in me should not remain in the darkness.' (v. 46)
Background
Jesus in now in Jerusalem, following his welcome by the Passover festival crowd as he made an entry to the city on a donkey (John 12:12-19). After talking with the crowd about his death (John 12:27-36) we are now provided with this summary of Jesus’ teaching which also marks the last speech of his public ministry. Again, the focus is on who Jesus is, his identity and role. The themes include being a light in the darkness, judgement, salvation for the world and that belief in Jesus leads to belief in God. To see Jesus and the light that he brings to the world is to see God at work (v. 46). The two are indivisible.
Whilst the focus is positive, that he does not judge those who are not able to follow his words and teaching, but seeks to bring salvation for all, there is an acknowledgement that ultimately those who don’t believe will face judgement. Belief and unbelief are choices that everyone can freely make but Jesus, through his word and actions that are of God, is giving all people the opportunity to make a positive decision that ultimately leads to eternal life.
Whilst Jesus may have withdrawn from the crowds (John 12:36), perhaps for his own safety, he is no longer hiding his identity and who he claims to be. It may be that some are still blind to this, as suggested by the use of prophetic quotes from Isaiah (John 12:38-40), nevertheless the “light that shines in the darkness” that was a central message in the gospel prologue (John 1:5) is now burning brightly. The next few hours and days, as we continue to journey through Holy Week, will test whether this light can be extinguished or not.
To Ponder:
- Light a candle if one is available, or use another form of illumination such as a mobile phone. Let's pray for those who have had a dark year as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. We pray they may experience the light of God in their lives.
- Consider the times you have experienced darkness, doubt, emptiness or fear and what brought light to those moments. Give thanks for those that may have helped with that, or the events or places that made this happen.