John 17
April 14
Jesus spent most of his life hidden. From his first 30 years of life, only three events are recorded in the Gospels: he was born, strangers brought him presents, and he got lost on a road trip. Even during his few years of public ministry, he ordered his disciples to keep his identity a secret. After healing lepers and giving sight to the blind, he instructed those who witnessed such miracles not to tell anyone.
It’s clear that Jesus wasn’t about glory—not his own glory, anyways. He kept his head down and sought to fulfill his appointed mission. He recruited twelve loyal friends, challenged tradition, performed miracles, preached the Kingdom, and submitted himself to death on the cross.
In the final moments before his arrest, he prays—for himself, for his disciples, and for us. One of his first remarks is this:
“I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do.” (John 17:4).
What a beautiful reminder for us of how we should live each day. Have you carried out the work God has for you today? Have you given God the glory? In the final moments of my life, I hope I can say that I’ve brought God glory on earth by finishing the work He gave me to do. I hope the same for you, too.
Jesus eventually got his glory. In fact, that same night he prayed for his glory to finally be revealed. Now, he’s seated in his throne at the right hand of God.
God intends for us to follow the same path as Jesus: to live quietly and to be rewarded greatly. In the meantime, let’s keep our heads down, working, and our hands lifted up, praising God. Let’s soldier on, continuing the cause of Christ.
Not to us, LORD, not to us
but to your name be the glory,
Because of your love and faithfulness
(Psalm 115:1).
-Mackenzie McClain
Discussion Questions:
- What is the work God has given you to do?
- We live in a culture that emphasizes building your own name, fame, and following. How is that message contradictory to how God wants us to live?
- What does it mean to give God glory?
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