Christ: Your Helper or Your Leader?

Take a look at John 4: 43 to 54 with focus on verse 49 "The nobleman said to Him, "Sir, come down before my child dies."

Jesus has now left Samaria and traveled into Galilee. He is now back in an area with rich Jewish culture. One would think He would get a more welcome reception from those of the Jewish culture, but He didn't. Early in Jesus' public ministry it was here where he turned water into wine. He showed the people of Galilee that He was the Messiah. But even with the miracles and public ministry many looked at Jesus in disbelief. Many continued in their ways and choose not to follow Him.

Jesus was seemingly frustrated with those in Galilee when your read these verses. I found it interesting that the nobleman referred to Jesus as "Sir" and not "Rabbi". His disciples and followers would identify Him as "Rabbi", a leader. But this man refers to Jesus as a mere acquaintance. It is clear that Jesus knows this man's unbelief. The man seemingly knows Jesus has special abilities, but has no intention on following Him. But even while this man did not believe, Jesus shows enough compassion to save this guy's son. The result was this man and his family became followers of Christ.

This makes me think of my own relationship with Christ. How do I look at Him? Do I ....A.) Approach Him in prayer asking Him to do things I want? or B.) Do I submit my requests to God with respect and full acknowledgement that if I do not get what I want, I will continue to follow Him no matter what? My plan is "B", to make my relationship with Jesus not contingent upon what I want. I do not want to be like this man, asking for Jesus' to help, when I had no real intention of following Him to begin with. Christ wants committed followers, who are willing to walk a life of faith in Him, even when things are not going our way. We need to trust that Jesus knows our needs more than we do. It is fine to put up our requests to God, however we should temper our requests in such a way that we accept what He gives us.

Dear Lord, thank you for your provision. I acknowledge that you hear my requests, but at times you may lead me in another direction. Give me the courage and faith to follow your lead, Amen.