Daily Devotional for February 24
February 24 John 5:30-47
"You search the Scriptures, because you think that in
them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear
witness to me."
As Jesus asserts his authority from God, he challenges his
listeners. He claims that they refuse to receive him. Jesus rightly
reveals how people are willing to receive others, seeking glory
from them, yet are reluctant to receive Christ. In refusing Christ
they refuse the glory God gives in Christ.
We too search the Scriptures to seek eternal life. And for us,
too, the Scriptures have at times become a law in themselves,
restricting life and faith. As Jesus judged his listeners, so too
are we judged when we refuse to receive Christ, the one to
whom the Scriptures bear witness.
Christ calls us beyond the written word, beyond the Scrip-
tures. We are called to an encounter with the living Word,
the person of Jesus Christ, in whom the fullness of God dwells.
Christ is the way to life. Christ is the standard of faith. Christ
is our salvation. Our search of the Scriptures leads us to Christ,
who leads us to God. If we stop short of Christ, we fall short
of God.
Does your faith seem lacking? Do you find yourself looking
for more information, eager for something new? Does your
suspicion of authority keep you away from Christ? Won't you
risk taking a step toward Christ today? Perhaps you have not
yet met the truth and authority of Christ.
Jesus, can I receive all of you? I want to
understand you, and to experience your life and love.
I am tired of searching for another source of salvation. I
have not yet opened my life to the things you have said.
I come today to you to end my search. I come to
listen to your truth and to behold your glory.
From The Road to Emmaus - An inclusive devotional Edited by Joseph W. Houle
Emmaus House of Prayer - Washington D.