Read:

John 12:27-32 "Now my soul is troubled, and what shall I say? ‘Father, save me from this hour?’ No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour. Father, glorify your name! Then a voice came from heaven, 'I have glorified it and will glorify it again.' The crowd that was there and heard it said it had thundered; others said an angel had spoken to him. Jesus said, 'This voice was for your benefit, not mine. Now is the time for judgment on this world; now the prince of this world will be driven out. And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.'"

Think:

Have you ever played a sport where you competed in the biggest game of your life and were in charge of the outcome? Your free throw, bat, and kick would make the difference in winning or losing the game. Your anxiety level was through the roof, and your coach sensed your concern and called a time out. He called you over for a brief pep talk. He reminded you, "This is what we are here for.” He brought you back to purpose.

Jesus entered Bethany to crowds cheering, and people chanting his praises. But John records his "coach's talk" with Phillip and Andrew regarding his purpose. His purpose wasn't about the showy crowds. The fans didn't want him to die, they wanted him to rule. But he came to be crucified. They waved palm branches as a symbol of victory. But Jesus offered them more – peace beyond understanding, a different peace than they imagined. Jesus offered a lasting peace, a peace for eternity.

Apply:

Have you ever needed that pep talk from "Coach Jesus"? Have you had the false expectations that the Jewish people appeared to have? God has called us to a more significant purpose than we can see. Ask God to open your eyes to how he moves around you.

Pray:

Jesus, thank you for putting aside your human feelings and pushing through to God's plan for humankind. Thank you for dying for me. In Jesus' name, Amen.