God frequently works through the ordinary. Through them he shares something of his love for us and reveals elements of his redemption plan. In this devotional series we look at some of the ordinary things Jesus would have encountered as he journeyed towards the cross. For the next few days we will look at garments. Holy Spirit, will you reveal something extraordinary through each of them. Amen.

It’s hard to be sure what people in Jesus’ time wore - archaeologists rarely find clothes because they just don’t last in the way pottery and metals do, and Hebrews very rarely depicted humans in their art. As a Jewish man, however, Jesus would certainly have worn a large, four cornered garment most likely made of wool or cotton; a shawl known as a tallith. The Bible doesn’t command the wearing of this garment. It simply assumes most people would wear a covering over their clothes and it is to that common, everyday item the Lord instructs his people to add twined and knotted fringes known as tzitzit. The tzitzit were intended to remind God’s people of his commandments so they would follow them and be holy.

When we read of people touching the ‘hem’ of the garment Jesus wore they would probably have touched the tassels in an act of faith, remembrance, and hope. We can imagine ourselves doing the same. Embracing the truth of who God is, reminding ourselves of his ways and precepts, and committing ourselves to him again are things we can do every day. We don’t have tzitzits but we do have the morning we wake to, the Word, the breath in our body, the things around us that bring us joy. As an act of faith, find something to remind you of God’s instructions and his goodness today and feel your hope increase.

Let's pray
Thank you, Lord, for the blessings you have bestowed on my life. You have provided me with more than I could ever have imagined. Strengthen me in my inner most being. Help me keep your instructions and your precepts ever before me. Help me be led by your Spirit and Heart. My hope is in you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

God frequently works through the ordinary. Through them he shares something of his love for us and reveals elements of his redemption plan. In this devotional series we look at some of the ordinary things Jesus would have encountered as he journeyed towards the cross. We start with the disciples. Holy Spirit, will you reveal something extraordinary through each of them. Amen.

The 12 men we refer to as disciples were a subset of a larger group which travelled with Jesus. Standing alongside them was an extraordinary group of women. Many of them had been healed by the Lord, others were drawn to support him financially, all were devoted to him and his ministry. Most risked their reputation but one - Joanna - risked her life.

Joanna was the wife of a wealthy official named Cuza who was a senior official, the manager of Herod’s household. Cuza controlled the treasury and property of the court. As a prominent noblewoman in Herod's court, Joanna would have been a noteworthy supporter of Jesus'. Not only so, but Joanna helped fund Jesus' ministry from her own income. Since Herod was Jesus' adversary, Joanna's allegiance and actions would have put her in direct opposition to the powerful king.

Despite this, Joanna followed Jesus and was absolutely committed to him even as she remained living in the palace. (Some Bible experts believe the detail of events that took place in the palace before the crucifixion were provided to the disciples by Joanna.)  Joanna is one of the three women who discover the empty tomb of Jesus’ resurrection (Luke 24:1–12) and is probably one of the women mentioned in the Upper Room during Pentecost. A witness to the resurrection and a proven faithful follower of Jesus, Joanna became one of the first missionaries. Scholars conclude that the disciple Joanna and Junia (Romans 16:7) are the same woman.

In the company of Jesus, Joanna discovered an identity beyond that of “Chuza’s wife”. The same can happen for us. We are the best version of ourselves when we are following Jesus, aligned to his purposes, and our identity is in him. Who are you to Jesus today?

Let's pray
Lord, make me brave. Direct me to explore how you have equipped me to serve others and bring you glory. Bring into my life the people and opportunities that reveal my purposes and the destiny helpers who enable me to fulfil them. Empower me to walk in my calling. For your glory and in Jesus' name. Amen.

God frequently works through the ordinary. Through them he shares something of his love for us and reveals elements of his redemption plan. In this devotional series we look at some of the ordinary things Jesus would have encountered as he journeyed towards the cross. We start with the disciples. Holy Spirit, will you reveal something extraordinary through each of them. Amen.

Of all the disciples it is probably Peter who is described the fullest in the gospels. We feel we know him through the writers' accounts. He is accessible, authentic. No one has airbrushed out his flaws.

Peter was at times hesitant and unsure. He could also be determined and resolute, rash, hasty, irritable, and capable of great anger. Often, though, he is pictured as gentle, and capable of great loyalty and love.

My favourite of all the stories of Peter occurs on the morning after Easter when he goes back to life as a fisherman. Peter takes his boat out but returns fish less (again!) to the shore. When John tells him he sees Jesus Peter can’t contain himself - he jumps from the boat into the water and runs to the Lord. And he’s welcomed. Even though he has utterly failed Jesus through his recent denials, Jesus welcomes him, feeds him breakfast, and completely restores him.

If you need restoring today, run to Jesus in the same way. There is nothing you could ever do to make him reject you. You are always welcome.

Let's pray
Thank you, Jesus, that whatever the state of my heart today you welcome me. You alone are able to heal, comfort, and restore me. You alone can give me renewed vision for my future. Thank you for your love and acceptance. Amen.

God frequently works through the ordinary. Through them he shares something of his love for us and reveals elements of his redemption plan. In this devotional series we look at some of the ordinary things Jesus would have encountered as he journeyed towards the cross. We start with the disciples. Holy Spirit, will you reveal something extraordinary through each of them. Amen.

God frequently works through the ordinary. Through them he shares something of his love for us and reveals elements of his redemption plan. In this devotional series we look at some of the ordinary things Jesus would have encountered as he journeyed towards the cross. We start with the disciples. Holy Spirit, will you reveal something extraordinary through each of them. Amen.

John the disciple is generous. He doesn't just say he is loved but also points to others Jesus loves. He specifically names Mary, Martha and Lazarus, but then goes on to talk about all of us. Through his gospel he gives us a solid theology and foundation for friendship. It emerges as an eternal and holy commitment to each other which is established regardless of other similarities or alliances. John proclaims the profound truth that friendship with God is the basis for all authentic friendship. He mirrors the love and devotion Jesus shows him then uses the reflected light to help us see the truth of who we are to Christ. And also to see the truth that others are significant to him, too.

Everyone you meet today is made in God's image and sustained by his breath. How will you extend the friendship of God and love of Christ to them today?

Let's pray
Thank you, Father, that you are love and love comes from you. Help me love those you give me to love. Help me to believe in them, even when they do not believe in themselves. Help me to extend generosity to them regardless of whether we have things in common. Use me today to love someone on your behalf. In Jesus' name. Amen.

God frequently works through the ordinary. Through them he shares something of his love for us and reveals elements of his redemption plan. In this devotional series we look at some of the ordinary things Jesus would have encountered as he journeyed towards the cross. We start with the disciples! Holy Spirit, will you reveal something extraordinary through each of them. Amen.

God frequently works through the ordinary. Through them he shares something of his love for us and reveals elements of his redemption plan. In this devotional series we look at some of the ordinary things Jesus would have encountered as he journeyed towards the cross. We start with the disciples! Holy Spirit, will you reveal something extraordinary through each of them. Amen.

John uses the phrase "the disciple whom Jesus loved" six times in his gospel: at the last supper; at the cross; as he receives instruction to care for Mary, the mother of Jesus; at the empty tomb; and in this encounter with the risen Jesus. In many ways he gives us a model for what it means to be a beloved disciple.

John stays close to Jesus at all times. He is loyal to the Lord regardless of the threat he would have faced simply by being associated with him. He is deeply concerned to obey Jesus and to represent him in all his fullness - his gospel is not just a historic account but also a progressive revelation of the glory of God's only son. John is able to help us navigate some of the mysteries Jesus presents us with. He understands how Jesus can be both our friend and Saviour. He holds to the truth he is loved in his very worst and best moments.

Perhaps most significantly, he also holds on to hope. No-one expects to see Jesus alive and on the beach, but John is quick to recognise him. That takes great faith and friendship! May we be as full of faith and love.

Let's pray
Jesus, as we walk with you through this Lent season would you help us to stay close, be loyal, represent you well, hold to the truth, and hope. Jesus I am so grateful you are my friend. Thank you that you call me beloved. I love you, Lord. Amen.