DAY 144

SERVE SOMEBODY

1 Chronicles 22, 23 & 24 and John 8:28-59

David really wanted to build the Temple. These three chapters of 1 Chronicles catalogue David getting as much organized as he can for its construction and operation.

Jesus on the other hand stands almost at the other end of the second Temple with respect to time. In a few short decades it (the second Temple) will be destroyed. Our Lord’s concern however is more about people knowing the truth and knowing him. In this moment he is certainly “mixing it up” with the people who he is talking with.

 It is quite the flurry of words – we’ve gone from Living Water, to Light of the World, to the Truth, to now “I AM”. Yes those are the words God at the Burning Bush spoke to Moses. The people are provoked, picking up stones to kill him.

Beyond the historical setting of this text, our Lord’s words are meant to speak also to us. “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth and truth will set you free.” What do you make of that short phrase?

Is your reaction the same as those hearing it for the first time – do you want to say, “I’m already free, I’m an American!” That is not the point though, is it? The point is that we are all following someone or something. As that great theologian Bob Dylan once sang, “You’ve gotta serve somebody.” Jesus is suggesting that serving Him is serving the truth and the truth will set us free.

What do you serve? Take a look at the commercials on television and consider what they are asking you to “buy into.” The “youth-beauty” culture is a dominant theme; we are to be young and beautiful. The cosmetics industry is 2.6 BILLION in 2012…and that is just for men! Or how about that powerful and sporty car – doesn’t that just spell success! The list goes on. Some of us are serving an “American Dream” that is being shaped by others. We work…we chase…we strive…to obtain something. If you figure out what that something is, then you will know what you are serving.

And yes even the Church can fill this role…and that is not a good thing…do not confuse the Church for God. When you are volunteering or working at Church and completely burnt out and tired, I don’t think that is freedom.

So here stands Jesus, today, suggesting, inviting, dare I say commanding us to abide in His Word. When we do we will have truth and peace. Who would you rather serve?