John 12:47-50, Hear My Words

47 “If anyone hears my words and does not keep them, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world. 48 The one who rejects me and does not receive my words has a judge; the word that I have spoken will judge him on the last day. 49 For I have not spoken on my own authority, but the Father who sent me has himself given me a commandment—what to say and what to speak. 50 And I know that his commandment is eternal life. What I say, therefore, I say as the Father has told me.” 

Jesus ends his public ministry with an appeal for belief in him. Jesus is sent by the Father. He is one with the Father, and to see him and hear him is to hear the Father. He is the light of the world, and to come into his presence and believe in him is to receive the light of salvation. Those who reject him remain in the darkness of their sins and will face future judgment, and this judgment is found in what Jesus has already said. Follow Jesus and his word and receive eternal life. 

Lord Jesus, help us to see in you the light of truth and life daily. Help us to follow you, especially when the going seems hard. Comfort and guide us with your Spirit that we may follow your word, sing it in our hearts, and taste how good it is. Amen.