Human Knowledge

John 7:14–36

Human Knowledge

“Some of the people who lived in Jerusalem started to ask each other, ‘Isn’t this the man they are trying to kill? But here he is, speaking in public, and they say nothing to him. Could our leaders possibly believe that he is the Messiah? But how could he be? For we know where this man comes from. When the Messiah comes, he will simply appear; no one will know where be comes from.’” John 7:25-27 (New Living Translation)

The limits of human knowledge are pushed on nearly every front every day. We explore the tiniest particles and the vast expanses of the universe. We’ve cracked the human genome and have engineered an electronic system for sharing ideas and information that was utterly unimaginable even twenty-five years ago. On an exponential scale we know more than people ever have.

But all that we know - and that which we claim to - can overshadow and confuse the astounding truth that confronts us. As Jesus spoke in the temple, people argued with him, plotted to capture and kill him, and talked amongst themselves. Worldly rules and expectations governed their thoughts. The Messiah, they said, couldn’t be before them.

If we only watch and listen, Christ’s unrelenting message of love and service will appear before and around us. If we quiet our minds and mouths, we can, and will, notice. Our human achievements are noteworthy but they are God-given. They pale in comparison to the wonder of God’s promise and the power of his sacrifice. Let him appear. He will.

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Prayer: Lord in Heaven, please help me. Help me to see Christ. Help me to seek you. Allow me to tune to you and your plan for me. Equip me to appreciate and celebrate your gift to me so I can return it through my life. In your name, Amen.

Wade Whitehead