Today we read and meditate on the 12th chapter of John’s Gospel. As you read this chapter, let the rods wash over you and see what sticks to your mind and heart. This is how God is speaking to you.
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+12&version=NRSVCE
“And what should I say—‘Father, save me from this hour’? No, it is for this reason that I have come to this hour. Father, glorify your name.” John 12:27-28
When we live our life, do we do so with the mind and heart of Jesus? Do we face trials, big or small, looking to how we can allow God to glorify Himself through us and our lives? Or, are we inclined to stop at “Father, save me from this hour”?
I look at this moment in the Gospel and in my life, I want to glorify God in my actions. I want simply to turn to God and say, “Father, glorify Your Name.” I don’t want to hold back anything. That’s the hard part of life for me – not holding back.
But, when this moment comes, and the soul lets go and allows with all its being God to glorify Himself through it…oh the ecstasy. It is then that the souls feels the urge to give praise to God. To pour costly perfume made of pure nard, to anoint Jesus’ feet. To bow in humility before the God Who is Glory, the God Who has done such great things for the soul.
Saint John of the Cross, in His spiritual classic “Ascent to Mount Carmel,” explains that our desires must become completely purified to the point that all we desire is God and His holy will. Every other desire in life must be purged away so that we are singularly devoted to God. Does the soul love God so much that he desires only to humble serve Him?
Do you want to live your life for God’s glory? When you’re gone, will your eulogy or headstone honestly say, “He lived for God”? (Or she).
What did God say to you in these verses?