the Fourth Week after Easter
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Daily Devotionals
Day by Day Devotional - Year 4 of 5
John 13:21-38
"The disciple whom Jesus loved" is the name which John uses to describe himself in his gospel. He knew the Lord’s love for His own (v. 1), but he also knew that he himself was personally loved with this love. He enjoyed it close to the Lord Jesus, that precious place where he received the most intimate communications. But now the Lord reveals a terrible secret to him. He exposes Judas as the traitor, whom He had known from the beginning (John 6:64). Then Satan enters into this man who was ready to receive him and who goes out into the night to carry out his dreadful contract. Once again the Lord speaks of His cross where His glory is to shine out in the midst of dishonour (v. 31) and of His resurrection by which God is to glorify the One who has so perfectly glorified Him (v. 32). But how will His disciples be recognized in the future if He is no longer with them? By one sure sign – their love for one another (v. 35). Does this love truly characterize us? This is a question which probes deeply into our hearts.
In contrast with John who was occupied with Jesus’ affection for him, Peter declares his own dedication to the Lord, without, alas, heeding the Lord’s warning!
