The Scene Within the Seen

John 12:9-19

A while ago the chief priest had made the comment that it would be necessary for one man to die to put things in order, in the view of the people who controlled things (John 11:50). Now it turns out it is two who need to die, both Jesus and Lazarus, since there is so much fuss over Lazarus. That’s the way it goes. Malicious thoughts and deeds have a way of expanding.

The disciples don’t understand what is happening through these events, but God nevertheless has built into this unfolding drama signs of hope, and things that will help the faithful see the significance of events as they look back.

Revelation 7:9 describes the great multitude in heaven before the throne of God with white robes and palm branches in their hands. God placed a sign of victory in the midst of these events. In addition, there is delicious irony in the exaggerated resentful complaint about the “whole world” going after Jesus (verse 19). In will turn out to be true in a way the speaker did not envision.

Prayer:
Why is it, Lord, that I can let one ill word that comes my way fill up my thoughts when there is so much good you are doing, and so many people who really want to do that good? Help us all see the hope and build on it, for you have great things in store for those who trust you. In Jesus. Amen.