“We Would Like to See Jesus”
Scripture Reading — John 12:20-33
“Sir,” they said, “we would like to see Jesus.” Philip went to tell Andrew; Andrew and Philip in turn told Jesus.
In today's verses, some Greeks who believe in the God of the Jews ask to meet Jesus. He took the occasion to reveal what lay ahead, and God his Father dramatically confirmed it. Jesus would give his life; the cross wasn't a surprise. And he had to die to save us; it wasn't enough to tell us how to live. And—glorious news!—salvation is not just for the Jews. Jesus said, "I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself."
Spiritual disciplines enable us, like Philip and Andrew, to introduce others to Jesus. "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have" (1 Peter 3:15). We can't bring our friends to meet Jesus in the flesh today, but they can meet him through us. And we have the Bible. With our friends, we can learn all about the person and work of the Savior.
Lent is a journey of faith to get to know our Lord—learning of him in Scripture, spending time with him in prayer, and developing our relationship with him. His Spirit can transform our hearts and minds (Romans 12:1-2). Then others can meet Christ in us (Colossians 1:27).
Now, how can we prepare to respond to folks who would like to meet Jesus?
Lord Jesus, we want to know you thoroughly, through your Word and by your Spirit, so that others will see you in us and believe. We pray in your name. Amen.
About the author — Norman F. Brown
Chaplain Norman F. Brown graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis, in 1969. He served aboard destroyers during the Vietnam conflict and ashore in San Diego, Calif., as an instructor. By then God had made clear his call to work in pastoral ministry, and Norman entered Calvin Theological Seminary, graduating in 1980. Chaplain Brown pastored churches during his ministry career but spent most of his time as a navy chaplain. During one assignment he served three years at Holy Loch, Scotland, where he and his wife, Ruth, encountered the Iona Community and their emphasis on spiritual disciplines. Chaplain and Mrs. Brown have three married children and nine grandchildren.
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