Pattern and People and Purpose

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Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself.
- John 6:15

Rebellion was in the air. During the years just before and after Jesus’ lifetime, the area right around where Jesus lived experienced a number of revolts and rebellions against the harsh rule of the Roman government. All of them failed, some famously.

Each of these revolts followed a predictable revolutionary pattern. The people would get frustrated with the Roman oppression. They would find a charismatic leader and carve out an independent niche for themselves: a town, a fortress, even the Temple. Then, the Romans would wake up and squash the rebellion like a bug.

Jesus knew this pattern. And, if you know something of the rest of his story, he clearly wasn’t afraid of being killed by the Romans. But he also knew the people and knew God’s purpose for him.

The people had a picture of kingship that had been dramatically patterned after the kings of the culture around them. They wanted a military leader, not a prince of peace.

Jesus knew the people and he also knew God’s purposes for him. Jesus had tremendous clarity and focus. The roar of the crowd does not confuse him. He isn’t driven by their approval or applause. He knows what his Father has sent him to do and daily he does it.

Time and time again in the Gospels, Jesus withdraws to connect with his Father through prayer. He leaves the crowds behind and focuses on his Father. This renewed his clarity about what he was supposed to do and how he was supposed to live, lead and love.

What are the things that might distract us and pull us away from God’s purposes for us? What would it look like for you to more intentionally withdraw, pray and focus this week?

2 Comments

To watch less TV..to read the bible more....to thank
God more

To watch less TV..to read the bible more....to thank
God more

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