The clock is ticking. Friday is coming, and Jesus knows it. Nevertheless, he makes himself available to the crowd. Some world travelers have heard about Jesus and want to see him. So Jesus makes himself available. Nobody understands what's going to happen in a few more days.
But Jesus knows, and he tries to prepare the people. He talks about the value of life, and the benefit of losing it. He talks about the importance of following His example, and the benefit of doing so. Then the amazing happens, the voice from heaven...
Jesus answered, "This voice has come for your sake, not mine."
Isn't that the whole point? Jesus left heaven's glory...for my sake, not His. He took on human flesh...for my sake, not His. He traveled throughout Israel...for my sake, not His. He faced rejection and death...for my sake, not His. He rose from the grave...for my sake, not His. He was exalted to the right hand of the Father...for my sake, not His. He is interceding...for my sake, not His. He will return...for my sake, not His.
What an amazing thought! God, the Creator of the Universe, is so head-over-heels in love with me that He sent His Son...for my sake, not His.
And what does He ask in return? To live for His sake, not ours. Or to put it another way, love God and love people.
Lord Jesus, words cannot express my gratitude for what you have done for me. As I walk with you, teach me to live for Your sake. And give me the grace to walk with you, especially in the hours when my heart is troubled, and I'm tempted to bail. Amen
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