Light of the World

On Palm Sunday we celebrate the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem as King (John 12:12-19). The people hailed him as King and greeted him by waving palm branches. They had just witnessed the miraculous raising from the dead of Lazarus and were convinced that the scriptures had been fulfilled (John 11:38-43). This mighty miracle had persuaded them that Jesus had the power to redeem them from the oppression of the Roman rule. The Pharisees were flabbergasted and angrily mumbled that the whole world had gone after Jesus.

Some Greeks came to see Jesus following his ride into Jerusalem at the home of Philip (John 12:20-36). Their request was, "Sir, we would like to see Jesus." How many of us have this deep desire in our hearts? What do you see in your heart and mind when you try to imagine what Jesus looks like? Do you see Him as a light to those walking in darkness?

Jesus spoke to them by saying that unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies it will be alone. But its death will produce many kernels of wheat (John 12:24-25). This parable beautifully illustrates Christ power over death. He showed us that he had to die for us all so that we maybe raised to life in Him. Jesus went on to say that, "If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honor."

When Jesus prayed that God the Fathers name may be glorified, a voice thundered from heaven to the amazement of all saying, "I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again" (John 12:28). Jesus went on to prophesy about his death saying, "If I be lifted up from the earth, I will draw all men to me." Did they really understand that Christ was speaking of his death on the cross and his resurrection? Did they understand that Christ was prophesying about being the Savior of all the world?

They were confused and asked who Jesus was talking about because they believed that the Messiah would live forever and could not understand why Jesus was prophesying death. To which Jesus said, "You are going to have the light just a little while longer. Walk while you have the light, before darkness overtakes you. The man who walks in the dark does not know where he is going. Put your trust in the light while you have it, so that you may become sons of light." Are you walking in the light or in the darkness. Do you know where you are going? Jesus is calling you to serve Him and draw close to the Light of the World.