During this Advent season, we continue our yearlong journey through the Gospel of John as we turn to John 12.
Our series up to this point has taken us through the ministry of Jesus. We’ve heard his teaching, witnessed his miracles, and seen the growing tension as his claim to be the Messiah, the Son of God, and the Savior of the World comes into greater focus.
In chapter 12, the story takes a turn. From this point through chapter 19, John slows the pace to tell us about one week in Jesus’ life: his final week. It begins with Jesus entering Jerusalem, celebrated as King (John 12), and ends with the King of kings taking his last breath on the cross (John 19). It will take us from now until the end of March to walk with Jesus through these final days.
Of course, this final week gives way to a new week. As dawn breaks on the first day of a new week, death gives way to resurrection. Defeat turns into victory. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves.
During Advent, we might expect to read about things like the glory of God showing up to some shepherds in a field. Instead, we’ll be reading about how The Good Shepherd has come to show us his glory and be given as a gift for us all.
Advent is a time of waiting. It’s a time of wonder. It’s a time to see the light that shines in the darkness. As we journey through Advent, reading John 12, we remember that the coming of Jesus is not only a story from long ago.
The King still comes. The Light still shines.
God is Faithful.
Pastor Spencer Smith