Because the week leading up to Jesus’ arrest and eventual crucifixion was Passover week, there were many people in Jerusalem for this important Jewish holiday. Interest in Jesus and his identity was growing, and as people came to see him, Jesus had some unexpected things to share with them.
Jesus replied, “Now the time has come for the Son of Man to enter into his glory. I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels—a plentiful harvest of new lives. Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity. Anyone who wants to serve me must follow me, because my servants must be where I am. And the Father will honor anyone who serves me.”
Imagine you are one of the people there to see Jesus and hear him talk about this counterintuitive path to life. How do you react to the idea that the path to eternal life will require death?
Jesus’ words in verses 27-28 are a beautiful example of a prayer of surrender, even in the most difficult moments:
“Now my soul is deeply troubled. Should I pray, ‘Father, save me from this hour’? But this is the very reason I came! Father, bring glory to your name.”
Let’s make that our prayer together today:
Father, bring glory to your name.
Put your glory on display in our lives.
Help us be willing to lay down our lives here on earth for what is ultimately and eternally most valuable.
Help us look to you as our light, showing us the way to go.
Thank you for Jesus’ words, example, and presence.
Amen.