Today's Lectionary TextJohn 5:39-40Examine the scriptures, since you think that in them you have eternal life. They also testify about me, yet you don’t want to come to me so that you can have life. Today's Devotional
Reading Scripture is a part of my daily routine. Sometimes I simply read the suggested readings with the devotional material I use. But other times I read for study purposes. And then, there are the times I read Scripture in search of answers to questions for which I do not have the answer. But I do not remember ever thinking that I will find eternal life in the Scriptures, although I may have done so at some point.
Yet, Jesus tells his listeners in the quoted verses that they do exactly what I just denied doing. During Lent many of us become more intentional about reading the Scriptures as we seek to deepen our understanding and knowledge of God -- our relationship with Jesus. As we read, do we search for eternal life in the words? Or do we search for knowledge of Jesus and the eternal life he brings? Perhaps it is the Common English Bible’s wording that made these verses pop out at me when I read them the other day. I know I do not recall being challenged by these two verses in the past. But, when I read Jesus’ words about Scripture telling of HIM while those who search those very Scriptures refused to turn to him for eternal life, I had to wonder how many times I may have done so without realizing it. Scripture is, indeed, filled with words about Jesus and what he would do. But eternal life does not come from those words. The words lead us to see and understand Jesus. Eternal life comes from him, as God’s Son. If we do not turn to him for eternal life, we will not find it, no matter how diligently we search the words of the Bible. --Rev. Robbie Fall,
Retired elder Hutchinson Prayer for ReflectionHoly God, as we read and study the Scriptures this Lenten season and throughout the year, keep us mindful that the words alone are not the answer. Remind us that your Word which became flesh is the way to eternal life and guide us as we seek his presence in our lives. Amen.
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