John 8:27-30, He Has Not Left Me Alone

27 They did not understand that he had been speaking to them about the Father. 28 So Jesus said to them, "When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am he, and that I do nothing on my own authority, but speak just as the Father taught me. 29 And he who sent me is with me. He has not left me alone, for I always do the things that are pleasing to him." 30 As he was saying these things, many believed in him.

Why is Jesus so different from the Pharisees? Why did many believe in him despite his apparent failure to convince the Pharisees, the leaders of the people of God? People saw Jesus taught with authority unlike the teachers of the law, and that he practiced what he preached. His life was consistent with his message. But ultimately, it was his very submission to God the Father that set Jesus apart from his detractors—a submission so complete that it would lead him to the cross and to an act so powerful that no one should mistake the sacrificial nature of God.

When you and I are submitted to God, then we too will be able to testify as Jesus did. When we are willing to die to self and live for God, we will reflect the One who sends us. Then others will believe in him. This is the very grace of God working in and through us sinners who are no better than the people to whom we are sent.

If we have the attitude of the Pharisees, we will be seen as judgmental killjoys. But if we take on the character of Christ, that we have available to us through the Holy Spirit dwelling in us, then we can offer the same message of grace and forgiveness of sins that Jesus offers us.

Lord Jesus, reign in us today through your Spirit that we may serve you in this world by offering to those in need of salvation your living message of grace.