“But when the Jewish Festival of Tabernacles was near, Jesus’ brothers said to Him, “Leave Galilee and go to Judea, so that your disciples there may see the works you do. No one who wants to become a public figure acts in secret.” (John 7:2-4 NIV)
It’s interesting how Jesus’ brothers were suddenly giving Him ministry advice. It seems that they are trying to strong-arm Jesus into their agenda. It’s ironic, these are the very brothers that called Him crazy in other gospels. These guys, though likely well-meaning, did not have the credentials to call the shots.
Similarly, we try to give God pointers on how to further His purposes here on earth. (Maybe not you, but it’s a bad habit of mine, for sure!) How quickly we forget, we are unqualified! We are servants, not sovereign. Perhaps we forget our place in the geniality of Jesus? He is so gracious to keep our company and treats us with deference and respect we have not earned. Sometimes in the light of such mercy, we begin to overbear our station.
We additionally note the brother’s supporting statement: “So others can see the works that you do.” The brothers baseline motive was off. They weren’t invested in God’s agenda as much as their own fame and potential fortune.
Friend, can you recognize the propensity for self-promotion in your own story? I hang my head in concession. Ugly ambition is often just under the surface and simply not God-honoring. Jesus’ brothers reveal a dangerous tendency in our flesh and today I am taking note. We go where Jesus goes. We speak or stay or hold our tongue according to His timetable. We trust His motives and agenda far above our own because His way is perfect.
“Yet not what I will, but what You will.” (Mark 14:36 NIV)
Forgive us, Lord, when we want to wield the works of God for our own personal advantage. Please purify ur hearts as we follow You. May we be desirers of Your outcomes over our own. Protect us from the personal ambitions thaat don’t serve the Kingdom. Amen.