It’s interesting seeing the way the crowd changes from near the beginning of the chapter to near the end.
Near the beginning a crowd hails the coming of Jesus into Jerusalem as if He’s someone special. Near the end of the chapter a crowd hears what Jesus says and questions His utterances about the Son of Man being lifted up. They are alright with the coming Messiah, they cannot grasp why this same person would then face the worst way of dying.
Even after Jesus had performed so many signs in their presence, they still would not believe in him. (John 12:37)
This chapter is also indicative of the kind of responses Jesus receives to the words He said and the signs He showed. All for the fulfilment of scripture, it is also revealing about human nature. Very few would feel comfortable expressing faith in Jesus even after His invitation to believe in the Light to become children of the Light.
Reading these things reminds me of how I have responded to following Jesus. Sometimes I’ve wanted to retain a good showing among my peers, so I would not mention Jesus or faith in His name. Sometimes my very behaviour would not give anyone the impression I followed and believed in Jesus. Because like some of the religious rulers I preferred the praise of people to the praise from God.
I am grateful, then, for His overflowing grace to me that allows me to recognise the condition and turn again to the Light. I am challenged again to walk in the Light expressing who I believe in.
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
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