Scripture: John 12:24-26 (WEBBE)
24 Most certainly I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains by itself alone. But if it dies, it bears much fruit. 25 He who loves his life will lose it. He who hates his life in this world will keep it to eternal life. 26 If anyone serves me, let him follow me. Where I am, there my servant will also be. If anyone serves me, the Father will honour him.
Reflection:
In John 12:24-26, Jesus speaks of a profound truth hidden within the simplicity of nature—a grain of wheat must fall to the ground and die in order to bear much fruit. This imagery reveals the paradox of Christian life: true life is found through surrender, and fruitfulness comes through sacrifice.
Jesus Himself is the ultimate example of this truth. His death on the cross was not the end but the beginning of abundant life for all who believe in Him. Just as the grain of wheat must die to produce a harvest, Jesus’ sacrifice opened the way for countless souls to be redeemed and brought into the kingdom of God.
This passage also challenges us personally. We are called to follow Jesus by embracing the same path of self-surrender. To love our life in this world—seeking comfort, security, and self-interest above all—leads to spiritual barrenness. But when we willingly lay down our lives, letting go of our own desires and ambitions for the sake of Christ, we discover true life that lasts eternally.
Serving Christ means walking the path He walked, a path marked by humility, obedience, and love. It may lead us through trials and challenges, but it also leads to the fullness of life in God’s presence. Jesus promises that where He is, His servant will be also. This is not only a promise of eternal life but also of His constant companionship and guidance in our daily walk.
Finally, there is the promise of honour from the Father. When we serve Christ with a heart of devotion and surrender, God Himself honours us. This honour is not of earthly fame or recognition but the deep joy and fulfillment of knowing we are beloved children of God, sharing in His work and His glory.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, teach us to surrender our lives to You fully, trusting that in losing our lives for Your sake, we will find true and eternal life. Help us to follow You faithfully, even when the path is difficult, knowing that You are with us every step of the way. May our lives bear much fruit for Your kingdom, and may we serve You with hearts that seek only to glorify Your name. Amen.
Contemplation:
Spend some time in quiet reflection, asking God to reveal any areas of your life where you may be holding on too tightly. Consider what it might look like for you to “fall to the earth” and surrender these areas to God. Trust that in letting go, God will bring about greater fruitfulness and a deeper experience of His presence.
The thing about hope is that it’s a positive force that shines the most when it’s dark. When everything’s going well, we hardly notice it’s there. But when things go against us, when our dreams fade and when we see no immediate reprieve from our troubles, that’s when hope does its best work for us.
"Where Hope Can Be Found"