How can we apply Jesus' example in John 5:1 to our spiritual life? The Verse at a Glance “After this there was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem.” (John 5:1) Honoring God’s Timetable • Jesus traveled to Jerusalem because the Law prescribed three annual pilgrim feasts (Exodus 23:14-17). • He treated God’s calendar as non-negotiable, showing that worship is scheduled by the Lord, not by convenience. • Hebrews 10:24-25 urges believers not to forsake assembling; Jesus models that obedience. Making Worship a Journey, Not a Detour • The trip from Galilee to Jerusalem covered roughly 90 miles—time, cost, and effort. • True devotion embraces inconvenience (2 Samuel 24:24). • Planning our weeks around Sunday gathering, small group, and family devotion reflects the same priority. Positioning Ourselves Where Ministry Happens • By going to the feast, Jesus placed Himself at the very pool where the needy gathered (John 5:2-3). • Obedience to worship settings often places us face-to-face with people God wants us to serve (Acts 3:1-6). • Step into church early, linger afterward, volunteer—needs surface where God’s people meet. Expecting Divine Appointments • Jesus never treated commanded worship as routine; He anticipated the Father’s work (John 5:17, 30). • Approach every service or Bible study expecting God to orchestrate encounters, guidance, or conviction (Psalm 62:5). Living in Rhythms of Obedience • Regular, outward acts of obedience cultivate an inward readiness for greater assignments (Luke 16:10). • Faithfulness to gather trains the heart to obey in private matters—prayer, purity, stewardship. Practical Steps Today – Block feast-like “non-negotiables” on your calendar: Lord’s Day worship, communion, key church events. – Prepare the journey: pray for fellow worshipers, anticipate whom God may place in your path. – Arrive with a servant mindset: “Whom can I notice, encourage, or help?” (Philippians 2:4-5). – Reflect afterward: journal divine appointments, thank God for them, and follow up during the week. |
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