"There are many more things that Jesus did. If all of them were written down, I suppose that not even the world itself would have space for the books that would be written."
~ John 21:25
In general, it is suggested (though originally by whom, I couldn't say) that when reading things in the Bible, we should look for repetition. We should look for Scripture to validate itself.
I believe the theory is that, in so doing, we find an even stronger foundation than we do reading it once.
Even as I type these words, I'm not sure what I think of that particular philosophy.
If you believe that Scripture is God-breathed, then why would that be necessary?
On the other hand, if you are of the belief that man's hands on book selection and translations have influenced the content, then perhaps... but...
I'm not sure.
I tend to believe that God's hand is on and in it all, however it went.
Growing up, my parents wanted to ensure I was very comfortable with the words "I don't know." I have to say, they did a good job and today, I'm very comfortable with those words.
I don't know where I stand on the whole, ensuring that Scripture validates itself question. After all, there are some elements that pack a real punch that don't seem to be repeated over and over, at least not without some abstract thinking.
So... that said... the verse I'm thinking about is John 21:25.
For the longest time, I didn't even know this verse was in the Bible. But now, I find myself thinking of it often.
"There are many more things that Jesus did. If all of them were written down, I suppose that not even the world itself would have space for the books that would be written."
I have to be honest with you...
This tells me that we don't know it all or have all of the information.
This tells me there is plenty of mystery and detail not included in the 66 books from Genesis to Revelation.
But, what do we do with that?
You mean, we don't know it all?!
You mean, He is far greater than we could possibly understand as mere mortals?
You mean, His works are more than could be numbered?
Mostly this is meant to be food for thought, I think.
So many of us seem to be SO VERY CERTAIN of what God wants, who He is, what He would have us do or say or be. (Especially when we begin to formulate opinions about the lives and conduct of others.)
I am by no means saying that certainty in the Father is anything other than wonderful. But, I do think we need to be aware of how we wield that certainty... particularly when it becomes a weapon.
If there's so much unaccounted for from cover to cover, perhaps occasionally the words I don't know would be appropriate.
Perhaps sometimes that certainty could simply be supplanted by/with/for LOVE.
That we can be sure of. LOVE thy neighbor.
Even in our own confusion, questioning, and yes indeed, even doubt; when the answers don't seem so clear, perhaps it's okay to think of John 21:25 (and more) and know that He is far greater than our mortal minds can fully grasp, and perhaps in those moments we can receive His mercy, grace, and space, and be okay with uncertainty, with simply not knowing...
And, perhaps in those moments, we can choose to take His love, His goodness, His divinity, His perfection, His all-in-all on faith.
Just a thought.
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for helping us to be okay with that which lies beyond our understanding.
Thank You for helping us to trust and obey, even when we are unsure.
Thank You for helping us to be absolutely certain in who You are, while leaving room for that which we do not understand, knowing that you have it all under control, that which we do and do not understand.
These things we pray in Your most Holy Names,
Amen.
"Lo, these are parts of his ways: but how little a portion is heard of him? But the thunder of his power who can understand?" ~ Job 26:14
"Many, O LORD my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered." ~ Psalm 40:5
"Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book." ~ John 20:30
May the Good Lord bless you and keep you, friends... always, in all ways. Amen.
Bonus song of praise... ♥
Sharables! ...and, hey, thanks for sharing. ♥
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