Oh, It Will Happen

Pondering John 18:4-14. The drama intensified! Jesus asked the approaching Roman soldiers and Pharisees, “Who is it you want?” Jesus knew. He knew what was going to happen. He knew betrayal, rejection, agony and separation from His Father were quickly approaching. But He willingly went forward with the plan conceived before creation for our rescueContinue reading “Oh, It Will Happen”

Not Our Job

Pondering John 18:1-4. Through John’s eyewitness account, we catch a glimpse of the ultimate moment of betrayal and rejection. I’ve been betrayed and I’ve been rejected by “friends” I’ve truly loved. But nothing like what Jesus experienced. Not even close. Jesus finished praying, leaving the sacred space of intimacy with His Father. Along with HisContinue reading “Not Our Job”

Do We Really Want It?

Pondering John 17:20-26. I hold this prayer near to my heart because I love the glimpse into Jesus’ heart and desires as He approached His impending death. He prayed for Himself. He prayed for His disciples and then He prayed for me. Ok, ok. I recognize that Jesus’ prayer is corporate. His desire extends toContinue reading “Do We Really Want It?”

The Victory is His

Pondering John 16:31-17:5. He lived big. He made every moment count. He laughed. He cried. He explained and taught. He did the impossible. But His time was up. Jesus spent His last evening teaching, warning and encouraging His loyal friends. He wrapped everything up by saying, “In this world you will have trouble. But takeContinue reading “The Victory is His”

How Are We Doing?

Pondering John 15:12-25. There is so much turmoil in our world. The unrest, uncertainty, tension, and antagonism are rampant. In some ways it is a unique time but in other ways, it isn’t any different than the days when Jesus walked this earth. Therefore, I cannot leave Jesus’ teaching on abiding without pondering how itContinue reading “How Are We Doing?”

Recognizable Joy

Pondering John 15:9-17. Years ago I attended the Boston Marathon as a cheerleader. Keith and several friends qualified to race alongside thousands who had diligently trained so they could participate in this respected event. I found several spots along the runner’s route to cheer before locating the perfect spot overlooking the finish line where IContinue reading “Recognizable Joy”

Fruit for All

Pondering John 15:5-8. He had so little time left. He would want to make every moment count. Every word He spoke would be forever remembered as valuable. Jesus’ foremost commitment in His last hours was divided between praying to His Father and preparing His beloved friends for the future. And I am convinced Scripture wantsContinue reading “Fruit for All”

The True Vine

Pondering John 15:1-4. From California to Italy to France to Portugal to Israel to New Zealand, I have visited many vineyards. Therefore, I’ve had countless opportunities to ponder chapter 15 of John’s gospel. Jesus revelation of Himself as the true vine, me as His branch and God, the Father as the gardener has challenged and encouragedContinue reading “The True Vine”

Blessed Assurance

Pondering John 14:15-31. When I switch on a lamp, it will light the room even though I don’t understand electricity and how it works. In the same way, I believe God has revealed Himself through Scripture even though there is so much I don’t understand. For example, I don’t understand it yet I believe thatContinue reading “Blessed Assurance”

A Look at the Past

(Photo is taken from the high school yearbook when I was a junior.) Pondering John 14:6-7. I’ve struggled. I’ve lamented. I’ve tried to listen more than speak. And I’ve learned. I’ve fought against naïveté and the desire to look away. Yet I still have more questions than answers. I am utterly overwhelmed by mankind’s brokenness.Continue reading “A Look at the Past”