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| “I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds. Whoever loves their life will lose it, but the one who hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one that serves me.”
John 12:24-26 Once, at a political rally, I was asked to pray for Election Day. My prayer said in part that men and women died so that we can have the right to vote. A little girl approached me afterwards and asked me why would someone do such a thing! For those of us who still feel the shadows of the civil rights movement, we know why. When things weren’t right in his country, people of God stood up (remember the movement started as one of faith). So, how far are we supposed to take this Christian belief? Do we take it as far as Jesus was willing to go for us? In our text today, the Savior spoke these words announcing his world-wide influence and coming death to his disciples. Every time he did, it seemed extreme to his followers (cf. Peter’s rebuke). But now we are so glad that Jesus AND his disciples made the sacrifice of service. And what of the movements of today (hint, see pic)? Lord we thank you for life, and our relationship with you. Help us to be faithful to you today, in the ways that You desire for my life, in Jesus name, AMEN |