What It Looks Like to Follow Jesus
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Have you ever felt the tug on your heart to truly follow Jesus, but wondered what that actually looks like? I’ve been there. I remember the days when I longed to go deeper in my relationship with Christ, but the path seemed uncertain. Then one day, I stumbled across John 12:20-36, and it felt like Jesus was speaking directly to me. His words, “Those who love their life in this world will lose it, and those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity,” opened my eyes to a new way of living—one that’s less about me and more about serving others. In this article, I want to walk with you through this passage and explore what it means to follow Jesus with everything we have.
Understanding John 12:20-36
The passage begins with some Greeks who came to Philip, asking if they could see Jesus. I can picture this moment—people from all over hearing about the miracles, the healings, the teachings, and wanting to see for themselves. But instead of a simple “yes,” Jesus used their inquiry as an opportunity to reveal a deeper truth.
The Greeks Who Sought Jesus
These Greeks, likely Gentiles, represent how Jesus’ message wasn’t just for the Jews, but for everyone. They had heard about Jesus and wanted to know Him. I think that’s where a lot of us start, isn’t it? We hear about Jesus and we come seeking, hoping He’ll speak to our hearts.
Jesus’ Response to Their Inquiry
But Jesus doesn’t just give us a surface-level answer. He goes deeper. He speaks about His upcoming death and what it means to follow Him. His words about a grain of wheat falling to the ground to produce many seeds are a beautiful metaphor for what’s to come—for His sacrifice and for the kind of life He’s calling us to.
The Key Verses: Losing Life to Gain Eternal Life
Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity. John 12:25, NLT
This verse hit me hard the first time I read it. We live in a world that encourages us to hold tightly to our lives, our dreams, our comforts. But Jesus says the opposite—if we cling too tightly, we’ll lose everything. It’s a counter-cultural message, but one that brings so much freedom once we understand it.
Those who care nothing for their life will keep it.
It’s not that we don’t care about our lives—it’s that we’re willing to let go of our hold on them. When we shift our focus from ourselves to Jesus, we find the true meaning of life. I’ve found this to be true over and over in my own journey—when I give my worries, plans, and desires to God, He replaces them with something even better.
What Does It Mean to Follow Jesus?
I won’t sugarcoat it—following Jesus comes with a cost. It means giving up our worldly desires and choosing to serve others, just as Jesus did. But I’ve learned that the cost is worth it every time.
Giving Up Worldly Desires
The more I follow Jesus, the more I realize that the things I used to hold dear—status, success, comfort—don’t hold a candle to the peace and purpose I’ve found in Him. Letting go of these things isn’t easy, but it’s freeing.
Embracing a Life of Service
One of the most beautiful things about following Jesus is that He calls us to serve. Whether it’s serving my family, my community, or someone in need, I’ve found so much joy in living a life focused on others. Jesus set the example by washing the feet of His disciples, and He invites us to do the same.
Where Is Jesus?
Jesus is with the Poor and Needy
I’ve often asked myself, “Where is Jesus in the midst of all the chaos in the world?” And then I remember—Jesus is with the poor and needy. He’s with the people who are hurting, the ones society often overlooks. If we want to follow Him, we need to go where He is. That might look like volunteering at a homeless shelter, donating to a food bank, or simply offering a kind word to someone who feels invisible.
Jesus is with the Brokenhearted
There have been times in my life when I’ve felt completely broken, but it’s in those moments that I’ve felt Jesus the closest. Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted,” and I’ve seen this play out time and time again in my own life and in the lives of others.
Jesus is with Those Going Through Hard Times
Jesus is with us in the hard times, too. Whether we’re dealing with financial struggles, health issues, or emotional pain, He’s there, whispering, “Do not fear, I am with you.” He doesn’t promise to take away our troubles, but He promises to walk through them with us. That’s a promise I cling to daily.
How Can We Serve Like Jesus?
So, how do we follow Jesus’ example in our daily lives? For me, it starts with being intentional—looking for opportunities to serve the people around me. Whether it’s my kids, my husband, or my neighbors, I try to keep my eyes open to ways I can show them the love of Christ.
This is the heart of the Gospel, isn’t it? To love others as Christ has loved us. It sounds simple, but it’s one of the hardest things we’re called to do. And yet, when we choose to love, we’re reflecting Jesus to the world around us.
Jesus with the Widow and Orphan
Jesus had a special place in His heart for the widow and orphan, and He calls us to do the same. This is something that has deeply resonated with me, especially through my family’s journey of adoption. When we open our hearts and homes to those who are forgotten, we’re living out Jesus’ love in a tangible way.
Jesus Comforts the Mourners
I think of Mary and Martha, mourning the loss of their brother Lazarus, and how Jesus showed up in their grief. He didn’t offer empty words or platitudes—He wept with them. That’s the kind of love we’re called to offer those who mourn.
Jesus and the Curious Crowds
Jesus didn’t shy away from people who were curious about Him. He took the time to answer their questions and share the truth with them. As someone who writes about faith, this is a reminder for me to always be ready to share why I believe what I believe, but to do so with love and patience.
Jesus and the Children
I love how Jesus welcomed children with open arms. In a world that often overlooks the vulnerable, He made it clear that they were precious in His sight. It’s a beautiful reminder for us to care for the innocent and to have a childlike faith.
How Can We Show Love Like Jesus?
There are so many people who feel unloved and forgotten. Maybe it’s the single mom down the street, the elderly neighbor, or the coworker going through a tough time. We can show them Jesus’ love through small acts of kindness—things as simple as a handwritten note, a warm meal, or an offer to listen.
Comforting Those Who Mourn
When someone is grieving, words often fall short. But being present, offering a shoulder to cry on, or simply sitting with them in their sorrow can speak volumes. I’ve learned that sometimes the best way to love someone is just to be there.
Helping Those in Crisis
Life is messy, and people go through all sorts of crises. Whether it’s a financial struggle, a health scare, or a family issue, we can be the hands and feet of Jesus by stepping in and offering practical help. It’s not always convenient, but it’s what Jesus would do.
One of the most challenging but rewarding aspects of following Jesus is being where He is—serving the least, the lost, and the lonely. It requires intentionality and a heart of compassion, but I’ve found that when I step into these spaces, I encounter Jesus in the most unexpected ways.
The parable of the Good Samaritan has always been one of my favorites. It’s a reminder that love and service go beyond our comfort zones. It’s not about who’s deserving—it’s about loving everyone, just as Jesus does.
Following Jesus Without Fear
These words from Jesus are like a balm to my soul. Life can be scary, especially when we step out in faith to follow Him. But Jesus assures us that we don’t need to be afraid—He’s with us every step of the way.
Following Jesus isn’t easy, but it’s the most rewarding journey you’ll ever take. It’s a call to step outside of ourselves, to love, serve, and walk alongside those who need us m
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
October 28
Mark 13:32-37, Matthew 24:36-51, Luke 21:34-38, Matthew 25:1-46
Be Ready: Lessons on Vigilance
In today’s readings, we see Jesus delivering crucial messages about the importance of vigilance and readiness for His return. From the Gospels of Mark, Matthew, and Luke, Jesus uses parables and direct teachings to emphasize the need to stay spiritually awake and prepared for what is to come.
Mark 13:32-37, Matthew 24:36-51, Luke 21:34-38: Watchfulness in Uncertainty
In Mark 13:32-37, Jesus highlights that no one knows the exact day or hour of His return—not the angels, nor even the Son, but only the Father. Jesus compares this uncertainty to a master leaving his servants in charge of his household, urging them to be watchful so they are ready for his return.
Similarly, in Matthew 24:36-51, Jesus draws a parallel between His return and the days of Noah, where people were going about their daily lives, unaware of the coming flood. He encourages His disciples to stay vigilant, warning them to be like a homeowner prepared for a thief in the night. The message is clear: faithfulness, readiness, and vigilance are required, even when we don’t know when He will return.
In Luke 21:34-38, Jesus further warns His followers not to let their hearts be dulled by the cares and distractions of this life. He urges them to stay alert and pray for strength, knowing that the challenges of life could easily lead them astray.
Matthew 25:1-46: Parables of Preparation
In Matthew 25, Jesus continues with a series of parables that highlight the importance of being ready for His return.
The Parable of the Talents illustrates the significance of stewardship. A man going on a long journey entrusts his wealth to his servants. Two of the servants wisely invest and multiply the money, while one buries it out of fear. The master praises the first two but harshly rebukes the third for his laziness. The lesson here is that we must be faithful with what God has given us, using our talents, resources, and opportunities for His glory.
Next, The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats emphasizes that when the Son of Man returns, He will separate people as a shepherd separates sheep from goats. The sheep, representing the righteous, are those who serve and love others, while the goats, representing the unrighteous, are those who failed to show love. Jesus reminds us that our love for others is a reflection of our love for Him, and serving “the least of these” is like serving Him directly.
Word of the Day: Vigilance
Definition: the quality or state of being wakeful and alert; a high degree of attentiveness and responsiveness.
Application #1:
In these passages, the theme of vigilance runs throughout Jesus’ teachings. He calls us to be spiritually awake, aware, and prepared for His return—whenever that may be.
Jesus warns against becoming complacent, distracted by the cares of the world or the pursuit of fleeting pleasures. In Luke 21:34, He says:
“Watch out! Don’t let your hearts be dulled by carousing and drunkenness, and by the worries of this life.”
We are called to guard our hearts and to ensure that we are not consumed by worldly distractions. Life’s trials and temptations can dull our spiritual senses, making it harder to recognize the urgency of our faith. Vigilance means actively fighting against spiritual complacency, making sure we remain focused on God’s purpose for us.
Jesus also tells us to pray continuously for strength and endurance. We may not know when He will return, but we do know that staying connected to Him through prayer and devotion will prepare us for that day.
Application #2:
1 Peter 5:8 reminds us to be vigilant because our enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Vigilance in our spiritual lives is not just about waiting for Jesus’ return, but also about being alert to the enemy’s attacks.
How can we apply this to our daily lives?
Serve others with love. As we see in the parable of the sheep and the goats, we are called to serve those around us, especially the “least of these.” This service is a reflection of our love for God and an act of vigilance in keeping our hearts aligned with His purposes.
Stay connected to God through prayer and scripture. Vigilance requires constant communication with God, keeping our spiritual ears open to His guidance and leading.
Guard against distractions. The worries of this life can easily draw our attention away from what truly matters. Jesus’ words remind us to remain focused on Him, even when life gets overwhelming.
Be a good steward. Like the servants entrusted with their master’s wealth, we must be faithful with the resources and opportunities God has given us. Whether it’s time, talents, or treasures, how we manage what God has given reflects our readiness for His return.
October 29
Mark 14:1-2, Matthew 26:1-5, Luke 22:1-2, Mark 14:10-11, Matthew 26:14-16, Luke 22:3-6, Mark 14:12-16, Matthew 26:17-19, Luke 22:7-13, John 13:1-17, Mark 14:17-26, Matthew 26:20-30, Luke 22:14-30, John 13:18-30
The Final Week: Jesus’ Call to Communion
In today’s readings, we are walking through the final days of Jesus’ earthly life, full of significant moments and teachings. We can only imagine what was going through His mind as He knew exactly what was ahead, yet continued to love and serve those around Him.
Mark 14:1-2, Matthew 26:1-5, Luke 22:1-2: Plot to Kill Jesus
In these passages, we see the chief priests and religious leaders looking for a way to capture Jesus quietly, fearing the crowds’ reaction if they did it during the Passover. Yet, even in their plotting, the timing of events happens exactly as God had planned. Jesus was in control, and the timing of His sacrifice was perfectly aligned with God’s divine plan, fulfilling the prophecies that had been spoken long before.
Mark 14:10-11, Matthew 26:14-16, Luke 22:3-6: Judas’ Betrayal
Judas—one of Jesus’ own disciples—bargains with the religious leaders to betray Jesus. Motivated by Satan’s influence and greed, he agrees to hand Jesus over for thirty pieces of silver. This marks a pivotal moment of betrayal in the narrative, showing how even someone who walked closely with Jesus could be led astray by sin and temptation.
Mark 14:12-16, Matthew 26:17-19, Luke 22:7-13: Preparing for the Passover
Jesus sends His disciples ahead to prepare the Passover meal, giving them very specific instructions, almost like a secret mission. They are to follow a man carrying a jar of water, ask him for the guest room, and find the place already prepared. This reflects Jesus’ divine knowledge and intentionality—everything was set in motion, leading up to the meal that would become the Last Supper.
John 13:1-20: Jesus Washes the Disciples’ Feet
At the Last Supper, Jesus performs an incredible act of humility: He washes His disciples’ feet. This was an extreme act of servanthood, especially given that He was their Teacher and Lord. Jesus knew that His time had come, and yet, instead of focusing on Himself, He turned His attention to serving and loving His disciples, even though He knew they would soon abandon Him.
His action teaches us the importance of humility, love, and servanthood in our lives. Despite knowing their failures and weaknesses, Jesus chose to serve them to the very end, modeling the kind of love we are called to show one another.
Mark 14:17-26, Matthew 26:20-30, Luke 22:14-30, John 13:18-30: The Last Supper
At the Last Supper, Jesus breaks bread and shares the cup with His disciples, establishing the New Covenant through His body and blood. This meal is deeply significant, not just as a moment of farewell, but as an invitation to participate in God’s eternal plan of redemption.
In breaking the bread and sharing the wine, Jesus connects His sacrifice with the ongoing spiritual nourishment we receive through communion with Him. It’s a reminder that Jesus’ body was broken and His blood was shed so that we could experience new life in Him.
Word of the Day: Knowing
Definition: the state of being aware or informed; having or reflecting knowledge, information, or intelligence.
Application #1:
Throughout these passages, we see that Jesus was all-knowing. He knew the hearts of His disciples, He knew the events that were about to unfold, and He knew the depth of His love for His followers.
This word, knowing, points us to the profound truth that Jesus knows us completely—our thoughts, our struggles, and our future. Hebrews 4:15-16 tells us that we can approach Him with confidence because He understands our weaknesses and yet offers us grace and mercy.
We can find comfort in knowing that even when life feels uncertain, Jesus knows exactly what is going on. He is never surprised or caught off guard, and His love for us remains steadfast, no matter what.
Jesus’ knowledge is not just intellectual; it is deeply personal. He knows us individually and intimately, and He desires for us to draw near to Him, just as He drew near to His disciples at the Last Supper.
Application #2:
In light of this, we are also called to follow Jesus’ example of servanthood and humility. When Jesus washed the disciples’ feet, He showed us that true leadership and love are found in serving others, not in seeking power or recognition.
Are there areas in our lives where we need to humble ourselves and serve others more freely? Maybe it’s in our relationships, our workplaces, or our communities. Just as Jesus knelt before His disciples, we can follow His example by loving those around us in tangible, humble ways.
As we approach communion with Jesus, whether in prayer or through participating in the Lord’s Supper, we are reminded that He is not distant but intimately involved in every detail of our lives. He invites us to bring our struggles, our joys, and our whole selves to the table, where He offers us life, grace, and redemption.
October 30
John 13:31-38, Mark 14:27-31, Matthew 26:31-35, Luke 22:31-38, John 14:1-15:17
An Everlasting Friend
In today’s reading, we journey through some of the final, intimate moments Jesus shared with His disciples before His crucifixion. These moments are filled with deep teaching, warnings, promises, and a profound expression of love. Let’s walk through them:
John 13:31-38, Mark 14:27-31, Matthew 26:31-35, Luke 22:31-38: Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial
After introducing the Sacrament of Communion, Jesus begins to reveal what is to come. The disciples, still grappling with their position among each other, continue to argue about who is the greatest, even after spending so much time with Jesus. In response, Jesus emphasizes again that greatness comes from serving others—a central theme in His ministry.
Then Jesus turns to Peter and warns him that he will soon face a great test. Jesus tells Peter that although Satan has asked to sift him like wheat, Jesus has prayed for him—a powerful revelation of how Jesus cares for His disciples. Even when Peter boldly declares his loyalty, Jesus informs him that before the rooster crows, Peter will deny Him three times.
This interaction shows both Jesus’ foreknowledge of events and His compassion for Peter, even as Peter would falter. Despite the impending failure, Jesus reassures Peter that his faith will not ultimately fail, and once Peter is restored, he is to strengthen his brothers.
John 14:1-15:17: Jesus Comforts His Disciples and Promises the Holy Spirit
After the warning of Peter’s denial, Jesus continues to offer words of comfort and encouragement to His disciples. He speaks of obeying His commandments, promising that He will not leave them as orphans but will send them an Advocate, the Holy Spirit, who will dwell in and among them, leading them into truth.
Jesus reassures them that He will return, but in the meantime, they must remain connected to Him, like branches to a vine, in order to bear fruit. Without Him, they can do nothing, but with Him, their lives will bear fruit for God’s kingdom.
The metaphor of the vine and branches also emphasizes the importance of remaining in Jesus’ love through obedience to His commands. As they remain in Him, their joy will overflow, and they will experience the fullness of life that only He can offer.
In this teaching, Jesus delivers an incredibly tender and surprising message: He calls them His friends. In the context of the time, this would have been shocking, as rabbis and disciples were not considered friends. Yet, Jesus invites His followers into a relationship of love, trust, and friendship—one that surpasses the traditional teacher-student dynamic. Jesus’ love for His disciples is so great that He will lay down His life for them, showing that there is no greater love than this.
Word of the Day: Friend
Definition: a person who has a strong liking for and trust in another; someone with whom one shares a close, mutual relationship.
In today’s passages, the word friend takes on a profound spiritual meaning. Jesus, the Son of God, calls His disciples friends—not just servants. This friendship isn’t based solely on duty or obligation; rather, it’s rooted in love, loyalty, and sacrifice.
Jesus demonstrated the greatest act of love by giving His life for His friends. In doing so, He established a model for what true friendship looks like: selflessness, loyalty, and a willingness to serve and sacrifice for the benefit of others.
Application #1:
Jesus calls us into this same intimate friendship with Him. He desires to be more than just a distant figure or teacher in our lives; He wants to be our closest friend, someone we can confide in, rely on, and trust completely.
This friendship is based on abiding in Him, staying connected to the vine, and obeying His commandments. As we cultivate our friendship with Jesus, we also learn to serve others with the same kind of selfless love that He demonstrated.
In reflecting on this friendship, consider:
- Are you abiding in Jesus, staying connected to Him as the source of your life and strength?
- How does your relationship with Jesus influence your friendships with others?
- Are there areas in your life where you can serve and love others more fully, as Jesus has loved you?
Application #2:
In Jesus’ teachings, we are reminded that friendship with Him isn’t just about obedience or following rules; it’s about love. “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13). Jesus has already demonstrated this love for us, and now He calls us to show this kind of love to others.
As we reflect on this profound truth, we can also remember that Jesus is the truest friend we could ever have. He knows our deepest struggles, our greatest fears, and our most hidden thoughts—and yet, He loves us unconditionally.
So, let us live out this friendship by:
- Loving others sacrificially, just as He has loved us.
- Remaining in His love, spending time with Him in prayer, worship, and reflection.
- Obeying His commands, which flow from love, not duty.
October 31
John 15:18-17:26
The Advocate: Jesus’ Final Words of Comfort and Strength
In today’s reading from John 15:18 through John 17, we witness Jesus preparing His disciples for the challenges they will encounter as His followers. He is clear and upfront: the world will oppose and hate them because of their association with Him, just as it hated Him first. Jesus makes it known that living as His disciple means not conforming to the values of this world but remaining faithful to Him, even in the face of hardship.
But Jesus doesn’t leave His disciples, or us, without hope. In fact, He offers the ultimate comfort: the promise of the Holy Spirit.
In John 15:26, Jesus says, "But I will send you the Advocate—the Spirit of truth. He will come to you from the Father and will testify all about me."
The Holy Spirit is more than just a guide; He is our Advocate, our helper, and the One who stands alongside us through life’s trials. Jesus tells His disciples that His departure is necessary for the Spirit to come, and when He does, He will convict the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment, and empower His followers for the work ahead.
As Jesus shifts to His High Priestly Prayer in John 17, He turns to the Father not just for His own strength, but for the protection and unity of His disciples. Jesus prays:
“Holy Father, protect them by the power of your name, the name you gave me, so that they may be one as we are one.” —John 17:11
In these words, we see Jesus’ deep love for His disciples. He prays not only for their safety but also for their unity, that they may be one just as He and the Father are one. This unity is essential because it’s through their oneness that the world will know they belong to Him.
Jesus goes further to pray for all believers, including us, asking that we too would be protected from the evil one and kept strong in faith. His heart’s desire is for all of us to be united in love and mission, sharing His truth with the world.
The world may bring sorrow, but Jesus promises that our sorrow will turn to joy. His victory is assured, and He encourages us to pray in His name, promising that our prayers will be heard and answered. Even as He prepared for the cross, Jesus remained focused on the needs of His disciples and all future believers, ensuring that we would never be left alone.
Word of the Day: Advocate
Definition: one who pleads another’s cause, who helps another by defending or comforting him.
Jesus is our Advocate, and He has sent the Holy Spirit to be our constant companion, guiding and empowering us in this journey of faith. When we feel overwhelmed, we can take comfort in knowing that the Spirit is actively interceding on our behalf and leading us toward the truth.
Application:
In times of trial, we need to remember that we are not alone. Jesus is our Advocate—He prays for us, He intercedes for us, and He walks with us through the power of the Holy Spirit. When the world pushes back, or when life feels overwhelming, turn to Jesus and the Advocate He has sent. Let the Spirit fill you with peace, strength, and wisdom, knowing that your prayers are heard and your steps are guided by a loving Savior.
November 1
John 18:1-2, Mark 14:32-42, Matthew 26:36-46, Luke 22:39-46, Mark 14:43-52, Matthew 26:47-56, Luke 22:47-53, John 18:3-24
Agony in the Garden: Jesus’ Final Hours of Prayer and Betrayal
Today we read about the events leading up to Jesus’ arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane and the betrayal by Judas Iscariot. Each of the four gospels recounts Jesus and His disciples heading to the Garden of Gethsemane after the Last Supper. There, Jesus becomes deeply distressed and sorrowful, praying fervently to God, asking if it is possible for Him to avoid the impending suffering and crucifixion. Yet, in an act of complete submission, Jesus prays, “Not my will, but yours be done.”
In Matthew’s account, we read of Jesus’ anguish and the disciples’ inability to stay awake while He prays. Luke adds the detail of an angel appearing to strengthen Jesus as He continues to pray in agony, His sweat like drops of blood. Judas, who would later betray Him, knew the place well and led soldiers to arrest Jesus.
The word “Gethsemane” carries deep meaning, and I wanted to explore this further. According to ThatTheWorldMayKnow.com:
“The word gethsemane is derived from two Hebrew words: ‘gat,’ meaning ‘a place for pressing oil (or wine),’ and ‘shemanim,’ meaning ‘oils.’ During Jesus’ time, heavy stone slabs were lowered onto olives that had already been crushed in an olive crusher. The slab’s weight squeezed the olive oil out of the pulp, and the oil was collected. The image of the Gethsemane on the slope of the Mount of Olives provides a vivid picture of His suffering. The weight of the world’s sins pressed down upon Him like the heavy slab of the olive crusher. His sweat, ‘like drops of blood falling to the ground’ (Luke 22:44), flowed from Him like olive oil.”
This paints such a vivid picture of what Jesus endured for us. The agony in the Garden of Gethsemane shows us that even the Son of God, in His humanity, faced deep anguish, a burden so heavy that He needed an angel to strengthen Him.
Word of the Day: Agony
Definition: extreme physical or mental suffering.
In this context, we see Jesus in true agony, both physically and spiritually. From the crushing weight of the sins of the world to the knowledge of the betrayal He would face, Jesus experienced an unimaginable depth of pain. Yet, He still surrendered to the Father’s will.
Application:
As we walk through life, we, too, encounter moments of deep agony. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, a health crisis, or personal turmoil, suffering is a part of the human experience. The Garden of Gethsemane teaches us several important lessons about how to endure these moments:
- Be honest about your struggles: Just as Jesus poured out His anguish to the Father, we can openly share our deepest pains with God. We don’t need to hide our feelings in prayer.
- Submit to God’s will: Jesus shows us the importance of submitting our will to God’s greater plan. Even in agony, He prayed, “Not my will, but yours be done.”
- Lean on community: Though the disciples failed to stay awake, Jesus still sought their presence. During times of suffering, don’t hesitate to lean on your faith community for support.
- Trust in God’s strength: The angel who appeared to Jesus reminds us that God provides strength in our weakest moments. His grace is sufficient, even when we feel like we can’t go on.
As we reflect on Jesus’ agony in the Garden, we remember that He knows our pain intimately. He walked the path of suffering before us, and now He stands ready to walk with us through our moments of anguish. Through prayer, submission to God’s will, and the support of our community, we can find hope, healing, and ultimately, peace.
November 2
Mark 14:53-65, Matthew 26:57-68, Mark 14:66-72, Matthew 26:69-75, Luke 22:54-65, John 18:25-27, Mark 15:1, Matthew 27:1-2, Luke 22:66-71, Matthew 27:3-10
The Trial of Jesus: A Lesson in Humility and Truth
Today, we find ourselves walking through one of the most significant moments in history—Jesus’ trial before the high priest and His subsequent denial by Peter. It was a long, difficult night for Jesus and His disciples. After being taken into custody, Jesus was brought before the high priest, Caiaphas, where accusations against Him began to pile up, many of them conflicting and false.
At one point, the high priest directly asked Jesus, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?” to which Jesus answered, “I Am.” This response sent shockwaves through the room. Caiaphas, accusing Him of blasphemy, declared Jesus guilty, and those present began to spit on and strike Him. As if His suffering wasn’t enough, Peter—one of Jesus’ closest friends—denied Him three times, just as Jesus had foretold. When the rooster crowed, Peter realized what he had done and wept bitterly.
The word “trial” takes on a double meaning here. Jesus faced a legal trial before the authorities, but He also underwent a deep spiritual and emotional trial, testing His obedience to the Father’s plan and His endurance through immense suffering.
The word “Gethsemane” itself gives us insight into the intensity of this moment. It means “a place for pressing oil,” which paints a vivid picture of the crushing weight of the world’s sins pressing down on Jesus, just as the heavy stone slabs in an olive press squeeze out the last drop of oil.
Peter, though loyal in his heart, experienced his own trial. Fear overtook him, leading him to deny the very Savior he had promised to follow to the end. Jesus, aware of Peter’s weakness, foretold this failure, but He also knew Peter would be restored. This shows us the beauty of grace: even when we fail, restoration is always possible.
Word of the Day: Trial
Definition:
- A formal examination of evidence before a judge in order to determine guilt in a legal case.
- A test of the performance, qualities, or suitability of someone or something.
Application:
Enduring Trials with Faith
In our reading today, we are reminded of the trials that we, as followers of Jesus, will face in life. We can learn three crucial lessons from Jesus’ trial:
- Standing Firm in Faith: False accusations may come, and we may find ourselves tested beyond our limits. Just as Jesus remained steadfast during His trial, we too must stand firm in our faith, knowing that God is our ultimate judge.
- The Importance of Humility: Even in the face of betrayal and injustice, Jesus demonstrated profound humility. As we navigate our trials, we are called to walk in humility, following His example, even when we are wronged.
- The Reality of Failure and Restoration: Like Peter, we will stumble. We may even deny our Savior in moments of weakness. But just as Jesus foretold Peter’s restoration, He also offers us the grace to return, be restored, and continue walking with Him.
Trials are an integral part of our journey with Christ, whether they come in the form of accusations, personal failures, or spiritual testing. But through it all, we are reminded that Jesus walks with us, offering grace and strength to persevere.
November 3
Mark 15:2-5, Matthew 27:11-14, Luke 23:1-12, John 18:28-40, Mark 15:6-15, Matthew 27:15-26, Luke 23:13-25, John 19:1-16, Mark 15:16-20, Matthew 27:27-31
Rejection and Redemption
Today, we continue our journey through the final hours of Jesus’ life, and it’s hard to read about the painful rejection He faced at the hands of so many. From Pilate to Herod, from the crowds to His own disciples, rejection was a common theme.
In Mark 15:2-5 and Matthew 27:11-14, we read about how Pilate, though aware of Jesus’ innocence, bowed to the pressures of the crowd. Pilate, the Roman governor, struggled to find fault in Jesus, yet the cries of the people to “crucify Him” outweighed the truth he saw. Jesus was rejected by His own people.
Moving to Luke 23:1-12, we see that Herod was also involved in Jesus’ fate. Herod mocked Jesus, wanting to see Him perform miracles like some kind of spectacle. When Jesus did not meet his expectations, Herod sent Him back to Pilate, confirming his own rejection of Jesus.
John 18:28-40 shows us the political maneuvering of the Jewish leaders as they handed Jesus over to the Roman authorities. And again, we see Pilate desperately trying to avoid condemning Jesus, offering the crowd a choice to release either Jesus or the criminal Barabbas. The crowd chose Barabbas.
But Jesus’ rejection didn’t end there. In John 19:1-16 and Mark 15:16-20, we see Him endure further humiliation and pain. Jesus was scourged, mocked by soldiers, and dressed in a purple robe with a crown of thorns pressed into His head. They laughed at His claims to kingship, saluting Him with “Hail, King of the Jews” as they spat on Him.
Finally, Jesus was led to His crucifixion. Matthew 27:27-31 describes how the Roman soldiers took Jesus, stripped Him, and then forced Him to carry the cross on which He would die.
Word of the Day: Rejection
Definition: Refusing to accept or acknowledge someone; abandonment.
The word “rejection” means “to cast away after thorough investigation (testing); to reject after determining something is useless (unworthy).” Isn’t it sobering to think that Jesus, our Savior, was cast aside as unworthy by the people He came to save?
Yet, in this rejection, God’s plan of redemption unfolded. Jesus’ rejection was the very pathway through which salvation came to us. His suffering was not in vain; it was necessary to fulfill God’s divine purpose.
Application:
Turning Rejection into Redemption
The trial and rejection of Jesus carry profound lessons for us today. Rejection is never easy to face, but we must remember that it can be a stepping stone to something greater—just as Jesus’ rejection paved the way for the world’s redemption.
- Rejection as Growth: In our moments of rejection, whether from people, opportunities, or circumstances, we can grow closer to God. James 1:2-4 reminds us that the testing of our faith produces perseverance, leading to maturity.
- Grace in the Pain: Like Jesus, we are not alone in our moments of rejection. When we are rejected, grace enters, offering us healing, strength, and the reminder that God has a purpose for our pain.
- Redemption through Jesus: Jesus’ rejection was not the end, and neither is ours. Jesus endured rejection so that we could be accepted by the Father, and through Him, we find hope, healing, and salvation.
When rejection comes, let’s remember that we have a Savior who endured the ultimate rejection to bring about our redemption. His grace covers our pain, and His love gives us hope.
