Today’s Reading: John 12:27-36
Hearing God’s Voice for Today:
“Now is the judgment of this world; now will the ruler of this world be cast out. And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.”
* * * * *
Jesus would soon go to the cross to die for the sins of the world. His Father’s judgment on this world would soon come. All sins would be condemned forever.
But the Father had a plan. Instead of his wrath falling upon you, it fell upon his Son. Jesus became the penal substitute for your sins. Judgment fell upon him instead of you. He took the punishment he didn’t deserve so he could give you the forgiveness you didn’t deserve.
All this was done because of the Father’s great love for you.
At the same time, when Jesus died, the ruler of this world, Satan, was cast out. He was forever defeated. The foul enemy of the Father and your soul was overcome. When you believe in Jesus, the devil has no more authority over you.
When Jesus was lifted up on the cross, he drew all people to himself. This doesn’t mean everyone in the entire human race. Obviously, many people choose to reject his claims. They want only refuse to follow him.
This term “all people” means “all kinds of people”—that is, all kinds of people from all around the globe. Christ’s kingdom will have Jews and Gentiles, rich and poor, young and old, male and female, and all skin colors.
This broad range of people and ethnicities will comprise his church. They will love, encourage, serve, and pray for one another. Together, they will serve this hurting world until he comes again.
Jesus is the one who draws you. As you survey his wondrous cross, don’t you sense his love drawing you? It’s his amazing grace wooing you to come and follow him.
When you chose to follow Jesus, realize he was already drawing you. With every situation and circumstance, in every relationship, in every moment of your life, he has been drawing you. He does this so he can crown you with his tender mercies.
Jesus knew you by name when you were in your mother’s womb. He knew your name even before the foundations of this world were ever laid. Though human parents may have dementia and forget your name, he never will. It’s written indelibly in his mind.
He wanted you in his kingdom. His cross proves it. What more could he give?
Respond today to his great love. No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him5.
It’s something that demands your soul and your life—indeed, your all!
[from “Hearing the Voice of God” by Pastor David Chadwick, Moments of Hope Church, Charlotte, NC]