(Read John 12 first)
45 and whoever sees me sees him who sent me (John 12:45)
May we live in a manner where this is true. If you identify with the faith, who knows of your conviction? This life is meant to be a training ground for us – a way of becoming more like our Lord so that people around us are pulled into the Gospel by our conduct. To be a follower of Christ means to be weird, a little off, an anomaly. With this, we must be careful what we are known for. We are sure to be misunderstood, but is our reputation built on the right things? Does it start with what we are for (grace, justice, patience, kindness) or what we are against (politics, people groups, quarrels)? We whole-heartedly believe that when we step out of the burden of this life, people see Christ more clearly.
11 because on account of him (Lazarus) many of the Jews were going away and believing in Jesus (John 12:11)
There was no arguing with the miracle God achieved in Lazarus. Lazarus used God’s movement to bring others to faith. He did not use it as a path to gain for himself, but rather an avenue for God to move.
A Willing Saint + A Willing and Able God = an Undeniable movement
3 Mary therefore took a pound of expensive ointment made from pure nard, and annointed the feet of Jesus (John 12:3)
Mary gave Jesus her best, not what was left over from the day. She was intentional. She was a servant. She prioritized the work of Christ. Today, what are you putting forth to honor our Lord? What are you holding back?
Pray: Lord, thank you for your amazing work within us. Father, help us to get out of your way so that you can move and we can see you more clearly. May we never serve you out of selfish ambition but out of a desperate longing for relationship with you. Convict us if there is anything we withhold from you. Help us to reorganize our day so that you alone are the center. Examine our hearts and find us willing. Amen
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