out of the ordinary | the disciples

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.

I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love. With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself. Jeremiah 31:3, NLT

One of our friends in our younger days was called "Eggy". Quite who coined this nickname is lost in the annals of time, but it seems someone thought Eggy looked like an egg, and the rest is history.

The disciple John is part of the inner circle of Jesus’ relationships, yet throughout his gospel he talks about himself anonymously. He gives himself a nickname "the beloved disciple". John's closeness to Jesus influences everything he thinks and does, and he understands Jesus' purpose is to reveal the Father. John seems to have concluded that his role is to step to one side so we can see Jesus more clearly. By his nickname he tells us, "Who I am doesn’t matter, my name isn’t important. Focus on Jesus!"

But his description of himself also declares the transformative power of Jesus in his life. His identity is one who is utterly, enduringly, endlessly loved. That is your identity, too. Let the Holy Spirit remind you of that today.

Let's pray
Thank you, Father, that you have loved me from before the foundation of the earth and you love me now with an everlasting love beyond all measure and imagining. Help me follow John's model - to help others see Jesus more clearly and revel in his love. In Jesus' name. Amen.