Today is November 10th. A special day for me. On this day in 1775 at Tun Tavern in Philadelphia a committee of the US Continental Congress met and formed a militia to fight against Great Britain's oppressive reign over the new world, the US. This militia was the United State Marine Corps! Having served in the Corps for 12 years, we as Marines call this our Birthday. Today I received a call, as I do every year, from my good friend and fellow Marine, Luis Jimenez. We both served together in the Marines and met in boot camp. We formed a brother-like bond that will last a life time. I check in with him and he with me all the time. He called me and said, "Happy Birthday Marine!". I'm really am proud to have served in the Marines.
Initial recruitment in the Marines was established to create two battalions of warriors to battle against Great Britain. In contemplation of the next few verses we will look at, the early formation of the Marines has "mild" similarities to what one Man/Savior did 1775 years earlier to take-on an oppressive regime! Jesus is the ultimate warrior who courageously confronted a corrupt ruling power, single handedly I might add, for the benefit of all mankind. I can say I am proud to be a Marine and I have even more pride to be a follower of Jesus!
John 5:17 to 21 shows the courage Jesus showed. Focus on verse 20b "and He (the Father) will show Him greater works than these, that you may marvel."
Jesus is in a hostile environment. The Jews against Jesus are ready to haul him away for being disruptive. They are probably sick and tired of all the attention He is getting and concerned about the great number of people who are influenced by His refreshing approach to living. They cornered Him by saying He violated the rule of "working on Sunday". Most would say ok, I have pushed the envelope enough. But in typical Jesus fashion, He took it to another level. Jesus said He is God's son and was doing the work of the Father. Jesus indicates He has the capabilities of the Father. Now in this verse Jesus cites the Father will raise the dead and so will Jesus! This statement embroiled the opposition. The tension grew and God's plan was unfolding.
Even in fierce opposition, Jesus made no apology about who He was. He just conveyed the truth and let God's plan roll out. His boldness is a testimony to how we should boldly proclaim God's truths. We need to trust God in those circumstances where we feel we are being questioned or even when we are persecuted. Proclaim God's truth with bold acclaim! It needs no defense.
Jesus, thank you for your example of boldness and bravery. Let this Marine and all of us emulate your courage and focus. Amen!
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