We Wish to See Jesus

Daily Reading: John 12

Now among those who went up to worship at the feast were some Greeks. So these came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, and asked him, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” (John 12.21)

Devotional Thought: Jesus is quickly approaching the time of his crucifixion.  He has entered Jerusalem to the acclamation of the crowds.  And, it was not only Jews – people of faith who were expecting the Messiah to appear and reign – there were also “Greeks” who wanted to see Jesus.  These Greeks were spiritually hungry and came to worship God. 

The account in John does not say whether or not Jesus talked to these men, but I believe that they at least saw him as they followed Philip to Andrew and then to Jesus.  Philip could have said, “No way I’m taking you to Jesus!  You’re not good enough.”  Andrew might have said, “Jesus is too busy with real Jews to care about whatever you have on your mind.”  But, they didn’t do that.  They went to Jesus, and I believe that these Greeks gladly followed him and got close enough to hear Jesus pray, “Father glorify your name,” and God respond from heaven, “I have glorified it.”  They also heard Jesus speak of a grain of wheat falling to the ground and dying and bringing forth much fruit.  After the crucifixion and resurrection, that was enough truth to lead them to faith in Jesus!

When they heard of Jesus, these Greeks wanted to meet him.  Think about what was happening.  People who were not quite up to snuff according to Jewish standards, who some even considered “second class” wanted to see Jesus.  It made me think, “Are there people who are not quite up to snuff according to our standards who want to see Jesus?”

Are we willing to bring people to Jesus?  Even people who are different from us?  Or, do we jealously guard our insider status?  People want to see Jesus.  They need hope.  Let’s bring them to Jesus!

Prayer: Lord, show us the hurting, the hungry, the thirsty, the seeking around us.  They need Jesus.  Fill our hearts with compassion for the outsiders, that we would show them Your love.

Psalm of the Day: 36.7-12

7 How precious is your steadfast love, O God! The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings.

8 They feast on the abundance of your house, and you give them drink from the river of your delights.

9 For with you is the fountain of life; in your light do we see light.

10 Oh, continue your steadfast love to those who know you, and your righteousness to the upright of heart!

11 Let not the foot of arrogance come upon me, nor the hand of the wicked drive me away.

12 There the evildoers lie fallen; they are thrust down, unable to rise.