When Power Becomes Your Passion

Thursday, February 17, 2011

Reading: John 7:45-53

Reflection: It is interesting what happens to people who are so driven to preserve their power and position that they will sacrifice almost anything...or anyone...to keep it. In this passage of scripture we see the religious leaders bent on arresting and removing Jesus from the public arena. It doesn't appear that they are that concerned about Jesus' teaching. In fact, given what Nicodemus states, it appears they are not that familiar with what Jesus is actually proclaiming. What seems to bother them is that Jesus is gaining favor in the eyes of the people, which in some way may infringe on their ability to control and manipulate the mob.

The result is that they will seek to do almost anything to destroy Jesus. It would be easy for me to judge the religious leaders...that is if I were not so much like them. Sure, I don't really have a position of power and control over others. But, within my own life, I sure do like to maintain control. I don't mind Jesus encouraging me to do what I already want to do. But when He begins to roll over the stones and reveal those creepy crawlies that are hidden deep within the darkness, I don't like it very much. I would sometimes rather keep control than listen to His instruction. So the challenge for me is not to shake my head at these religious leaders as much as it is to examine where and how I myself seek to limit the impact of Jesus so that I might keep control of my life. In those areas I need to listen to Jesus and let go of my desire to maintain the facade of artificial control.