6 August Revd Andy Chislett-McDonald

​Timing is everything. Scripture, reflection and prayer.

John 12:20-26 "Now among those who went up to worship at the festival were some Greeks. They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, and said to him, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” Philip went and told Andrew; then Andrew and Philip went and told Jesus.  Jesus answered them, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. Very truly, I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. Those who love their life lose it, and those who hate their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there will my servant be also. Whoever serves me, the Father will honour."

Reflection. 'Jesus answered them, "The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified" '

Timing is everything. What triggered Jesus to recognise this as the moment for the great declaration; 'the hour has come?'  Some foreigners had come wishing to see Jesus.  If that is not a reason for us to welcome the stranger, I cannot think of a better one. The arrival of strangers in the land was the moment when Jesus knew it was the hour. The arrival of these people seeking Jesus was somehow a catalyst. We sing the Christmas song, 'Wise men seeking Jesus....'  These wise visitors seeking Jesus prompted the hour of Jesus's glorification. And, of course, the hour of our salvation - the Cross is being readied. The hour has come. Timing is everything.
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Prayer.  Lord Jesus your hour and our salvation is at hand. Thank you that you were the grain that fell into the earth. Thank you for your hour. May we be where you are. For your glory. Amen.