What a day. First Jesus heals the man at the pool, and then it’s showtime. Jesus is confronted by the religious leaders who are less than pleased. Have you ever been in the “hot seat”? Meaning, caught off guard and not prepared for questions or what is being asked of you to do? It’s uncomfortable. But not for our Lord. He may have wanted to avoid confrontation, but it was likely to happen. It had to happen.
So what did Jesus have to say? His words probably rocked the world of those listening. However, they listened with deaf ears. Jesus even said their approval or disapproval means nothing. He told them the love of God was not inside them. Imagine if he said that about you – it would hurt me at least. These leaders were too focused on rules and regulations, man made not God made. There were blind to see that God was standing right before them. The Son of God.
How does one not see or recognize God? I’ve been perplexed by that. I suppose if God doesn’t want them to see they won’t see. The evil one can also get involved to blind us and make us do evil. I loved when Jesus said, “You search the Scriptures because you think they give you eternal life. But the Scriptures point to me!” The Old Testament, the portion they would have, has many references that point to Jesus. That was the plan. God’s plan.
Jesus is the way to eternal life. We know that, and if we’re not clear, there are many references in the Bible and in this devotion that speak about it. It’s where we want to go someday. It’s our final destination. The only road to heaven is with Jesus. To see God face to face, at last, will be quite something. We can’t even imagine.
Here’s a beautiful song by Mercy Me, “I Can Only Imagine.” Listen HERE. Such a beautiful image. One day.
Don’t be like the Pharisees and religious leaders. They didn’t see. We need to have our eyes open and be prepared for God to be working in our midst. We need to be diligent in spending our time with him. It’s a favorite part of my day. Start the relationship now so when the time comes you’ll be all set and much closer to the God you will worship forever.
Let’s pray. Lord, I thank you for what you are doing in my life. I want to feel a surge of your power today as I’m just a bit sad. Lift me out of this pit and refill my heart with your joy. I am so thankful for what you’ve done and how you are preparing a place for me. Thank you that I have eyes to see you. Thank you that I can call you Lord and friend. I look forward to that day when I see you face to face. May I live intentionally in your will until that day. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
