The Festival of Shelters is one of three festivals for which Jews are mandated by Old Testament law to pilgrimage back to Jerusalem. This joyous festival commemorates the provision received by the Israelites while in the wilderness. It’s not surprising that Jesus and his followers would plan to go to Jerusalem. What is surprising is how their planning played out.
Jesus wasn’t going to join them, even though the disciples encouraged him, saying this would be the perfect opportunity to come out of “hiding.” They seemed to be so concerned with directing Jesus’ ministry, growing the number of followers, and seeing more of the miracles themselves. Jesus’ response was, “You go on. I’m not going to this festival, because my time has not yet come.” I’m sure the disciples were perplexed by what he meant.
Were you surprised then when John tells us that Jesus did, in fact, show up at the festival? Jesus knew the risks. The Jewish leaders had clearly made their opinions about Jesus known. Even the people were starting to wonder about Jesus, fearing what the religious leaders would do or think. Have you ever been afraid of getting in “trouble” for speaking out about Jesus? It seems this world is becoming less tolerant of Christians all the time.
We’re told that midway through the festival, which lasts seven days, Jesus made his appearance. After all the secrecy, Jesus quietly begins teaching in the Temple. I wonder what shifted for him. Jesus clearly wasn’t keeping a low profile anymore by speaking in such a public place!
Jesus defends himself in front of his critics when he said, “My message is not my own; it comes from God who sent me.” What would you have thought hearing those words? Jesus immediately claims that discernment will come to those who seek God’s will. God sees our hearts and our intentions, and the Holy Spirit helps us to understand.
We all know plenty of people who seek glory for themselves. Jesus talks about them. It’s easy to spot when people use “I” statements while spouting off about their accomplishments. It’s always refreshing when somebody gives credit to God for their achievements.
After all, everything we have is owned by God. We are merely stewards of all his provisions. This is exactly what the festival celebrates, how God provides. It’s easy to want to take credit for hard work done on a project or good fortune, but who is actually responsible? Where did your power or ability come from?
One good takeaway for us is to see how Jesus challenged the crowd to look beyond appearances, rumors, or other distractions. Instead, seek God’s will and righteous judgment. It’s not easy to do, and Jesus knew it. Jesus told us to “Look beneath the surface so you can judge correctly.”
Have you been looking at a life situation from the wrong perspective? Are you letting distractions of the world blind you from God’s will for your life?
Let’s pray. Father, forgive me for how I let the noise of the world interfere with my day. Help me to shut out the distractions that would try to derail my faith or ability to seek your will. Thank you for all of your many provisions, especially sending Jesus to make you known and to save us from our sinfulness. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
