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21 Later Jesus said to them again, “I am going away. You will search for me but will die in your sin. You cannot come where I am going.” 22 The people asked, “Is he planning to commit suicide? What does he mean, ‘You cannot come where I am going’?” 23 Jesus continued, “You are from below; I am from above. You belong to this world; I do not. 24 That is why I said that you will die in your sins; for unless you believe that I am who I claim to be, you will die in your sins.” 25 “Who are you?” they demanded. Jesus replied, “The one I have always claimed to be. 26 I have much to say about you and much to condemn, but I won’t. For I say only what I have heard from the one who sent me, and he is completely truthful.” 27 But they still didn’t understand that he was talking about his Father. 28 So Jesus said, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man on the cross, then you will understand that I am he. I do nothing on my own but say only what the Father taught me. 29 And the one who sent me is with me—he has not deserted me. For I always do what pleases him.” 30 Then many who heard him say these things believed in him.

 

These verses find Jesus on the Temple Mount speaking to a group which included religious leaders. In earlier verses they questioned Him and His identity and His parenthood…and now questioning His destiny. Many did not want to follow Him on earth, why would they want to follow Him in heaven? I try to envision this scene. Even with miracles they were privileged to witness, why the disbelief? It makes me think of Charlie Kirk (not comparing him to Jesus) but answering questions amongst large crowds about God’s word and explaining his beliefs to our youth. Jesus was secure in who He was and where He was headed. He was giving a warning to those non-believers. Sin separates us from God. Do we know where we are headed?

Heavenly Father, thank you for Your word to guide our faith journey. Our world needs Your light to shine so bright to bring us out of darkness! In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Ann Groomes

anngroomes25@gmail.com

 

Prayer concern: For victims of violence