Easter ReflectionsSample

Everyone, Jew and Gentile alike, was going to Jerusalem to worship Yahweh since it was the month of Abib - when they'd celebrate the Passover as had been instructed in Deuteronomy 16:1. Among those in attendance were some Greeks (John 12:20). They wanted to meet Jesus. When he received the news of their request through Philip and Andrew, Jesus responded, "The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified" (John 12:23).

Jesus knew that he would only be glorified through his death and resurrection. This he made clear using an analogy of a grain of wheat that bore much fruit by falling onto the ground and dying (John 12:24).

Christ would be glorified through suffering, and his disciples had to be ready to glorify him through their own suffering as well (John 12:25-26). According to Jesus, whoever hates his life in this world would gain it in eternity. Andrew, for example, cherished the gospel more than his life enough to earn crucifixion on an X-shaped cross in Greece (AD60) on account of his obedience.

Among the many lessons to be learned, we appreciate first that Christ came for all, Jew and Gentile alike. He satisfied God's wrath not just for the Jew but for the entire world (1 John 2:2). Secondly, we learn that the resurrection of Jesus is vital, since we see him glorified through it. Without the resurrection, we ought to be the most pitied of all men (1 Corinthians 15:19).

Think upon Christ's resurrection this Easter. Rejoice in the assurance that the Father's wrath towards you is fully satisfied if you have believed in the Son for the forgiveness of your sins (Hebrews 10:12-14). Finally, serve God with your all, hating even your life for the sake of your worthy King, Jesus Christ (Philippians 3:8-10).

Prayer:

I adore you, Lord Jesus. Thank you for saving me. Help me love you and serve you with my life. Teach my heart to treasure you above all else as I wait to see you face to face. In Jesus' name, Amen.