John 7:2–13 (NKJV)
2 Now the Jews’ Feast of Tabernacles was at hand. 3 His brothers therefore said to Him, “Depart from here and go into Judea, that Your disciples also may see the works that You are doing. 4 For no one does anything in secret while he himself seeks to be known openly. If You do these things, show Yourself to the world.” 5 For even His brothers did not believe in Him.
John 7:2-9
6 Then Jesus said to them, “My time has not yet come, but your time is always ready. 7 The world cannot hate you, but it hates Me because I testify of it that its works are evil. 8 You go up to this feast. I am not yet going up to this feast, for My time has not yet fully come.” 9 When He had said these things to them, He remained in Galilee.
This story is a picture of the challenges of entering ministry. It is also Messianic in that Jesus is very aware of the plan of God for His life, and His role in bringing about the salvation of the world. However, in this particular moment, one sees the challenge of entering into ministry without the support and trust of even family members. Jesus’ own brothers do not really believe He is the Redeemer, and goad Him to go to the feast and show Himself to be a miracle worker. He knows it is not time to reveal Himself openly, so He declines to be a spectacle. Sometimes you need to be discreet rather than showy. Jesus showed that restraint.
10 But when His brothers had gone up, then He also went up to the feast, not openly, but as it were in secret. 11 Then the Jews sought Him at the feast, and said, “Where is He?” 12 And there was much complaining among the people concerning Him. Some said, “He is good”; others said, “No, on the contrary, He deceives the people.” 13 However, no one spoke openly of Him for fear of the Jews.
John 7:10-13
Jesus followed that tradition of the Jews, attending the Feast of Tabernacles. He did it discreetly, not drawing attention to Himself. He was devout and sought to celebrate the feast with the people, but not as its focus or as a distraction. He was the subject of many conversations, as He had begun to turn come conventions on their side through miracles and teachings that were not the norm. However, the timing of His entrance onto the public stage was not for the people to decide, but for the Father to determine. Therefore, Jesus waited. What transitions or initiations are you facing in life? Into what new adventures are you seeking to proceed? God has a plan and a purpose for you. Simply wait upon Him, for His timing is perfect. If you plan your own ascent, and rise too early, you may fall. But in God’s timing, all will be right and holy. Wait on the Lord, and when He says “Go,” walk boldly into the light which He shines on your path!
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LIVE@5 – February 3 (Thur), 2022
Devoted To You 
