April 1, 2010

Opening Hymns:
Come into the Holy of Holies 71 (Red)
Spirit of the Living God 277 (Red)

Scripture Reading:
John 12:20-36

Message Temptation
After Jesus had been fasting for forty days in the wilderness He had been tempted three times. In this verse we see a sparkling reminder of the third temptation. In the third temptation the devil had offered Jesus His kingdom, the earth. The devil was willing to give Him the earth as long as He worshiped him. However, Jesus did not accept this offer.

The temptation has revealed itself once more. The crowd tempts him by stating “We have heard from the Law that the Christ will remain forever, so how can you say, ‘ the son of Man must be lifted up?’” In Luke chapter 22 verse 42 Jesus states “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” The temptation to not go through with His mission is there. However in the scripture reading for today we see a different answer from Jesus. In John 12 verse 27 He states “Now my heart is troubled, and what shall I say? ‘Father, save me from this hour?’ No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour.” In this scripture Jesus pushes aside the temptation, and recognizes what His goal is, and has been. Regardless of the crowd’s desire to have Him “remain forever,” He goes ahead as God planned… and not as the crowd had planned.

As we remember Jesus’ sacrifice, let us look into our own lives. Is there something God has been planning for you? Are you following His call? While the journey may be difficult and long… there is nothing more fulfilling than living the life God has called you to live. In times of temptation, remember Jesus’ unfailing love and sacrifice… and remember His words “The man who loves his life will lose it, while the man who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life” (John 12:25).

Time of Prayer

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn
His Name is Wonderful

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God