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Intention

To follow the example of Jesus’ obedience and humility, as we share the gospel truth.

Scripture

“‘And I, when I am lifted up from the Earth, will draw all men unto myself.’ He said this to show the type of death He was going to die.”

– John 12:32–33

Reflection

Jesus’ death was the greatest public spectacle of humiliation, anguish and love. Lifted up from the earth before all of mankind, He humbled Himself to the point of death – even death on a gruesome Roman cross (Phil 2:8).

Jesus willingly endured the shame of every lash, thorn and nail. All for the joy set before Him (Heb 12:2) – the joy of all men being drawn unto Himself (John 12:32). The joy that He would make a way for all to come to the Father through Himself (John 14:6).

Wow.

As I reflect on my experience sharing the gospel of truth, I am continually and deeply challenged by the example of our LORD Jesus. As the Holy Spirit leads me, I cannot think of one excuse not to tell others about the reason for the hope within me. Jesus nullified my every excuse on the cross. What hardship could my sharing of the truth produce that Jesus did not endure? Insult? Betrayal? Humiliation? Pain? Even, death?

Yet I can find myself inwardly justifying my lack of obedience to the Holy Spirit. Yes, I want them to know Jesus. But sometimes, I’m not keen to be the vessel to tell them the good news.

I know I am not alone in this wrestle. As we also see in the disciples, the Spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak (Matt 26:41). Yet God is so patient with us and abundant in mercy!

I am so grateful we have a high priest who compassionately sympathises with our weaknesses. Jesus was tempted and tested in every way that we are – the very One who sweated blood at Gethsemane (Heb 4:15–16).

So often, we can view this wrestle in evangelism as weakness or failure. But it is a beautiful thing. Our struggle to go is a sign of love. It’s a sign that we so highly value the joy set before us. But we also know the price we must pay.

Jesus counted the cost as He sweated blood (Luke 22:44) – but chose to obey the Father. Let us take comfort that the One who had His own struggle – and prevailed – is with us to help us in ours! He is with us to help us obey the call of God to ‘go’ and become the express outworking of His love. All glory to God!

The joy set before Jesus was the glorification of the Father and perfect communion with us. As we share (however small) in His sufferings (1 Peter 4:13), we too receive the great honour of sharing in that same joy. And not just us, but all who will humbly respond to the transforming message we have been commissioned to share. Praise the LORD!

Let us not forget the example of Jesus and the joy set before Him – and us.

Video

Prayer

LORD Jesus, thank You for Your perfect love to a broken world. Deepen our desire to follow Your example of obedience to the Father!

Teach us to be obedient in the wrestle – clay that is soft and pliable in Your hands. May our sharing of Your truth show the world that we are a people who love You and them above everything – even more than our lives. And as we obey the Holy Spirit, may the joy set before us deepen and increase to overflowing!

Have Your way in us, LORD.

We love You, amen.

Author Bio

Joelle Cullen is a 24-year-old doctor of medicine student, completing her final years of study at the Hervey Bay Hospital, QLD. An active member of the Canberra Declaration, Joelle is passionate about seeing the next generation of young people arise and run, by the power of the Holy Spirit, into the fullness of what Jesus won at the cross.

Prayer Points and Purpose for GO Month 2024

1. To worship Jesus and give extravagant praise to God. 1 Chron 16:23–31.
2. To pray for revival, repentance and deliverance for Australia and for millions to find Christ. Acts 2:1–41.
3. To pray for five people by name to find Christ and share the gospel with those five in May. Matt 28:18–20.

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