Today's Passage: John 12

As I read this chapter, I was struck by the negative, sad tone. We read of Judas Iscariot showing his true colors about money and Jesus. Jesus spends time predicting his death that is looming in the near future; a death that is gruesome and painful. Even after all Jesus had done, there was still major disbelief from the Jews. Jesus ends the chapter pouring his heart out, crying out, to the people about salvation and eternal life.

On this day in America, we spend the whole day with our family and friends eating a lot of good food. Maybe some of you spend some time serving others or inviting those without family to join yours. Most of us have a very plentiful day of food, family, friends and football (and they all coincidentally begin with an 'f'). I know for me, that is totally true. Thanksgiving has always been a big celebration day for my family. I am sure some of you even sit around the table and share things you are thankful for and give thanks to the Lord for all he has done for you and your family. These are all great things.

One thing I am going to try to do is not just be thankful for the sacrifice Jesus made by enduring all the physical pain about the cross, but to really be thankful for the process that he went through in order to make it to the cross. He did all that, his whole life on earth, just to make it to the point where he died and would raise again so that I might live forever with him. That's truly amazing! John 12 is a great place to start. Read the words about being in the light and becoming a son of light. Read the words that God's command leads to eternal life. Read of the prophecies fulfilled through his life and ministry on the planet. That is something to be truly thankful for. Join me today in praising God for all the "little" things Jesus did before his final sacrifice.