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"What do you want?"These are Jesus' first words in the Gospel of John. Jesus often taught through questions, asking 42 in this account alone. He wanted his followers to search their souls, state their desires and convictions, and engage their minds and hearts as they listened to his message.
This book is designed to do the same. As you explore Jesus' life, you will also answer reflection questions that will guide you in searching your own soul and lead to a deeper awe and reverence for the great "I Am." |
Who is this for? |
This small workbook is perfect as a gift for teens, new Christians, and friends and family learning to have daily quiet times. As with any reading of the Gospel of John, it can also be a tool for re-inspiring even the most mature disciple of Jesus.
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Sample reading: |
Day 17.) John 9:1-41
It was (and still is) a common belief that misfortune is a direct consequence of sin. In your own life, how do you tell the difference between consequences of sin and suffering that is part of life in a fallen world? At times Jesus heals people with just a word or a touch. Other times he commands an action from them as part of their healing process. Why do you think he does this? Why are the Pharisees so concerned about what Jesus does on the Sabbath? What is Jesus trying to teach the religious leaders of his time about human tradition versus God's will, love and mercy? This is one of the most detailed stories in the gospel. We see how thoroughly the Pharisees investigated these miracles as they sought to discredit Jesus. Even once they are forced to admit he did in fact heal the man, they still seek to find charges against him. How can our preconceived notions, or our desire to be right, prevent us from seeing God? Compare the reactions of the three parties here: the blind man, his parents, and the Pharisees. They all witness or experience the same miraculous sign. What do their different reactions reveal about their hearts? Read Psalm 66:16-18. In v. 31 this man uses scriptural truths to refute the religious authorities. Why do you think they react so strongly? Jesus uses this physical miracle to make a point about spiritual sight and blindness. How have you closed your eyes to Jesus? ** Prayer: The statement from the man, "I was blind but now I see!" is found in the song "Amazing Grace." Read the lyrics to this song and pray through them. **Action: "Light of the world" is one of the only "I am" descriptions of Jesus that applies to us, too! Read Matthew 5:14 and decide how you can be a light to others today. |