Today’s Scripture readings: Psalm 80, Jeremiah 7:1-15, Romans 4:1-12,  John 7:14-36

Today’s writer: Brent Stewart 

In this Gospel reading today we come upon a confrontational scene in the
temple during the Feast of Tabernacles. Jesus is in the midst of the crowd
teaching and then suddenly a barrage of questions, accusations, and threats are
displayed throughout these verses. Jesus in the middle of this storm of confusion
in the temple has an assurance of who He is and where He is going. This is
something Jesus isn’t new to. He has faced these similar situations all of His
earthly life. Throughout the Gospels Jesus knew who He was and who sent Him.
As we read these verses we can see the crowds of people, religious leaders, and
Pharisees confused about Jesus. Jesus has a confidence and boldness in the
middle of this confusion. Where do we as the church have confidence in the
middle of our lives? Jesus relationship with the Father was one of intimacy and
purpose. This picture of intimacy and purpose should be the call to us as we go
through this Lenten season. In the storms and confusion of life intimacy with God
through prayer and scripture reading sustains us. Purpose flows out of the
relationship gained with God through these primary means. Jesus modeled these
aspects to show us what is essential in the times of life where confusion and
uncertainty abound. As we journey through this Lenten season let’s continue to
remember the redemptive plan of God in our lives.