Highlights In Today's Reading:
Crowned with thorns (19:1-3), bearing His cross (19:16-17), Jesus is crucified (19:18). He speaks from the cross (19:25-30); dies and is buried (19:30-42). He arises (20:1-10); appears to Mary (20:11-18) and the disciples (20:19-29). Note the key verse (20:30). He is to be Lord of our lives (21:6-22).
The first day of the week (20:19) dawned peacefully on Joseph of Arimathea's new garden tomb. The Savior arose and with His Resurrection dawned a new and victorious day for the human race. At evening . . . when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them. . . . Peace be unto you: as My Father hath sent Me, even so send I you (20:19-21). Acceptance with God was obtained when the cry: It is finished (19:30) triumphantly rang from the cross on Calvary. From this follows the foundation of faith for all those united to Christ in His death. The resurrection has brought to man reconciliation and peace with God and imparts to the Christian Jesus' assurance: Lo, I am with you alway (Matthew 28:20).
Like the disciples, many Christians become defeated because of some sin or being a doubter like Thomas, or they fear that Jesus may condemn instead of comfort, or fear that they may not be good enough, or fear what a hostile world will say or do. Such fears cause many to withdraw.
Christ knows our sorrows, our sufferings, and our fears. But, we can be certain that His grace is sufficient, regardless of circumstances. As the Lord told the Apostle Paul: My grace is sufficient for thee (II Corinthians 12:9). Without question, the Lord has a perfect plan and beyond our sorrows or failures, He has provided a glorious resurrection for all who will let Him be Lord of their lives.
What if the disciples had looked at their failures and then gone back to their fishing? It undoubtedly was a financially secure occupation. Peter had strongly denied Him, and all had forsaken Him in His sufferings. But the disciples didn't give up and Jesus did not give up on them. He desired to be with them as He came . . . and stood in the midst, and saith unto them (twice), Peace be unto you (John 20:19-21).
Are you still seeking satisfaction from success, or from worldly riches that soon fade away? The disciples discovered lasting joy when they saw the Lord. Oh, look to Him — the crucified, risen Savior! Look, then, to Him for joy that the world cannot give nor take away. You can be sure that Christ will say again: Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more (John 8:11).
Thought for Today:
Although we all have failed (much more than once), Christians can rejoice today in being made the righteousness of God in Him (II Corinthians 5:21).
Word Studies:
19:1 scourged =b> whipped with leather cords weighted with sharp pieces of bone or lead; 19:30 It is finished =b> His physical ministry was complete.
Cross References:
For John 19:24: See Psalm 22:18. John 19:36: See Exodus 12:46; Psalm 34:20. John 19:37: See Zechariah 12:10.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for Radio Sri Lanka International Shortwave Broadcasts for Sri Lanka sponsored by Marilyn Ambrose • Staff: Karen Hawkins • Government Official: Rep. Dennis Moore (KS) • Country: Mexico (99.7 million) in North America • Major language: Spanish • Religious freedom • 89% Catholic; 6% Protestant; 3.5% None; 1.5% Other (Orthodox, Muslim, Jewish, Baha'i) • Prayer Suggestion: Lift up your hands in surrender and praise as you pray (Psa. 63:4).
Memory Verse for the Week: Luke 14:33