The Priorities in Life
Read the Text: John 12
Memorize the Text: Jesus spoke to them again, “I am the light of the world. Anyone who follows me will never walk in the darkness but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12)
Consider the Text: John 12:1-11
What are some of the priorities in your life? What activities do you like to participate in the most, and what objects or loves occupy your time, talent, and treasure? These questions help reveal the priorities in life and the possible barriers that keep Jesus from being the main priority in our life. In John 12:1-11, we see three different individuals and their views of Jesus in their life.
Mary focused on SERVING JESUS WELL. Mary demonstrated the importance of keeping your priorities set on Jesus no matter what other items attempt to gain your attention. Previously, Mary chose Jesus instead of sacrificing time with him by aiding her sister Martha in preparing a table for Jesus. Here, she decided to give her best to Jesus by using expensive perfume. She desired to honor and glorify the Lord above everything else. Mary’s obedience was crucial because it opened the opportunity for her to reflect her humility and adherence to the Lord.
Judas focused on the MATERIAL OF THE WORLD. He concerned himself with having pockets filled with money and sought comfort over setting Christ as the priority. Judas was close to Christ. He traveled with him daily and still did not fully understand or believe in Jesus authentically. He participated in the ministry activity but never existed as a true follower. Such an occurrence happens today when we allow the church to become prioritized over Jesus. If we are not careful, the closeness of serving Jesus may occur without the presence of true understanding and belief.
Lazarus focused on LIVING A LIFE IMPACTED BY CHRIST. Lazarus lived because of the miracle when Christ rose him from death. He journeyed in life as living evidence of the power of the Savior. The impact of Christ in his life led him to seek to express the realness of the Savior and to introduce others to him. Lazarus prioritized Jesus by prioritizing introducing others to Jesus.
These three examples provide three critical questions of analysis for our lives today. First, what are the priorities in life? We must assess what we pursue and live for more than anything else. Second, are we like Judas in that we may serve the body but not know Jesus because we are overly concerned with the comfort of the world? Third, does the life we live align with the faith we proclaim like Lazarus? What are the priorities in life? Would others identify you are a Mary, a Judas, or a Lazarus?
This blog is part of the Coffee and Quiet Time with Jesus Devotional Series found at equippingfaith.com. Join the journey of reading through the New Testament this year. More information can be found at equippingfaith.com.
