Today's Bible Reading: John 19

Selected Biblical Text
The man who saw it has given testimony, and his testimony is true. He knows that he tells the truth, and he testifies so that you also may believe. These things happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled: "Not one of his bones will be broken," and, as another scripture says, "They will look on the one they have pierced." (John 19:35-37 NIV)

Reflecting and Thinking
The man in our selected textual reading is unidentified. Perhaps John is referring to himself. Perhaps he refers to another disciple who could serve as a reliable witness. What matters is not who the witness is, but who Jesus is. The testimony reaches its climax in Jesus' death. The testimony is certain: these things are true. The foundations for belief are established. Scripture is fulfilled.

Is faith easy for you or is it hard? Does the testimony of the Bible carry sufficient weight with you or do you often wish for something more? Can you figure out the "why" of these first two questions? John writes so that people will believe. He writes so that people will have faith, and thus have life. How can we develop faith based on John's gospel?

Prayer
Heavenly Father, we barely understand the cruelty, pain, and suffering of crucifixion. We marvel at the immensity and complexity of your plan. We do not understand, but we accept by faith, because of who Jesus is. Increase our faith and trust. We pray in Jesus' name, Amen.