Prayer Journal
Wednesday, July 30, 2003
"Simon Peter answered him, 'Lord, to whom shall we go?'" John 6:68
Those following Jesus had no problem with his teaching, his healing or even his "radical" interpretation of the Law. Scripture says there were many disciples following him. We know that because many of them walked away after Jesus claimed to be the Bread of Life, the one and only Son of God; the only one through whom God redeems man. Those remaining numbered twelve (with one betrayer among them).
Watching the mass of people leave, Jesus asked the others if they also wanted to go with them. Peter spoke up and boldly proclaimed that he accepted who Jesus said he was even though he often failed to understand his teaching.
Peter's profession was a strong statement of faith (even though he would later surrender to fear when Jesus stood before his hypocritical accusers.) His spiritual life was like a huge emotional roller-coaster with the highest of high points and the lowest of low points. Ultimately, Peter's faith would level out and remain that way until he faced death himself. His profession on that day would be like the one he was making today: "Lord, I have no other desire but you." (My paraphrase)
When you lose hope, where will you run if not to Jesus? Do you just endure the principles of God's Word or embrace them as your only hope? When the going gets tough, will you get going? I've got news for you; there's not a better place to be than walking by the Savior's side!
Those who left must have been homesick. Upon meeting Jesus and leaving home, I imagine they turned to look at it one last time, like Lot's wife taking one more glance of Sodom. I bet their friends made fun of them as they left, calling them "radical," as if that were a bad thing. And when they could no longer justify staying with him they left like a strong rubber-band snapping them back into their previous shape of status-quo normality.
Have you ventured far from where Jesus found you? Is your testimony like that of the old song; "Everyday with Jesus is sweeter than the day before?" If not, let me reintroduce you to Jesus. Not only is the one with the words of life, he is the only one who can take you to the throne room of God. Who else do you know that can do that for you?
Just Thinkin'... WebServant
Scripture comes from the Holy Bible, New International Version; (c)1978 by New York International Bible Society
Copyright © 1998-2003
James R. Green and Prayertower Ministries
All Rights Reserved
I'll pray today for...
* My spouse
* My children
* Their friends
* My friends
* My employer
* My city
* My country
* Civic leaders
* Schools
* Teachers
* The sick
* The lost
* Those in despair
* The hospitalized
* The grieving
* Widows
* Orphans
* My church
* My pastor
* Church leaders
* Other churches
* Persecuted church
* Missionaries
* Myself
