God speaks. John 12.27-36

God speaks.  John 12.27-36

Click to read: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%2012.27-36&version=NKJV

My soul is troubled, and what shall I say? … Father, glorify your name. Then a voice came from heaven, saying, “I have both glorified it and will glorify it again.” John 12.28

Jesus is troubled, and he voices it … “My soul is troubled” … where is his Father?  I mean, the question has been asked before, ‘Where is God in our pain?’  The answer is clearly illustrated right here—where is God in our pain?  He is not afar off; in fact, God is near.  Going to the cross for Jesus requires courageous obedience, for at the cross “met the horror of death and the ardour of obedience.”*  But since he lives to glorify God, Jesus casts an eye heavenward and says, “Father, glorify Your name.”  The voice he loves more than life comes immediately ‘I have, and I will.’

As he speaks out words of affirmation to Jesus, so he reassures his children today.  God is not silent, Friends.  But we need to listen.  Though we are not asked to go to the cross, there are times when the way is tense, the way is rough and we are troubled.  God is there to reassure us, and give us strength; if we listen, we will hear him speak to us—but God does not usually shout.  No, it is not that God does not speak, but that we do not listen, or look for his work around us, assuring us that ‘he who watches over Israel neither slumbers nor sleeps’.  Psalm 121.4

Are your knees growing weak, carrying the burdens of your life?  Cry out to God!  Are you certain the burdens you carry are meant for you? (Some examination might be in order)  If so, then ask God for strength, mercy and an awareness of his hand to steady and guide; he will convey these to you.  What did we learn from Jesus, earlier in this study of John?  “My Father is always working, and so am I.” 

Does your heart ache, dear one?  What does God’s Word promise?  “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted
and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34.18 

Are you physically exhausted from your strain?  Jesus beckons you to himself, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11.29

Yes, Friends, God speaks.

Christine

*18^th century theologian Johann Bengel