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The Work that You can Do


 
            “I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do” (John 17:4).

            That quote is part of a lengthy prayer that Jesus prayed on the night of his betrayal and arrest.  His time on earth was coming to a close, the cross loomed large and he was about to fulfill all that was predicted of him.  As he looks back on what he accomplished, he is able to say that he had finished his work. 

            How could Jesus say that? I mean, Jesus did not convert every person that he ever met (the “Rich Young Ruler” comes to mind - Mark 10:17-27).  He did not heal all those that needed healing.  Not everyone was impressed with or attracted to his teaching (See John 6:60).  Jesus’ ministry did not end with a big crowd of followers (Actually, there was a big crowd, but they were all against him).  Instead, he was crucified between two criminals and was publically mocked and disgraced.  By any measure that we normally use, Jesus’ ministry was anything but a success.  How could he say that he had finished the work that God gave him to do?

            Part of the answer has to do with how we think about our spiritual work.  I think that some believe that it is our job to do everything.  The whole world needs to hear the message and so it is now my job to teach everyone.  On top of that, some tend to think that if the word is presented perfectly, people will respond.  Therefore, if even one person refuses to listen or does not believe, I must have failed. 

            Jesus did not evaluate his work in that way, though.  Jesus said that he did what he was asked to do.  He was faithful to his task.  He brought glory to God and that was what made his work successful and complete.  The response to the message, the acceptance of God’s grace, the healing (both physical and Spiritual) was not really Jesus’ responsibility.  He was here to incarnate the word.  He was here to bring reconciliation through his sacrifice on the cross.  Even Jesus did not make everyone believe.  The very fact that a mob comes after him that night proves that not everyone was on board.

            The lesson that I need to learn then, is simple.  I am responsible, not for the whole world, but for my world.  I cannot do everything, but there is much I can do.  I cannot make everyone come to faith, but if I live by God’s Spirit, maybe someone will see his light in me.

            When we glorify God with our lives, he can use our lives for the good of others.               

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