August 24, 2020 -- John 7:1 -- No more gloom!

After this Jesus went about in Galilee.

He would not go in Judea, because the Jews were seeking to kill him.

John 7:1 English Standard Version

There are no throw-away sentences in Scripture, no verses which are not in some way informative. Today’s verse is an example of one that could easily be skipped over. That is why we rest on these words today and briefly consider them.

Galilee is the region where Jesus grew up. Nazareth, His home town, is in that region. Capernaum, one of Jesus’ key ministry towns is located in the region of Galilee as well. The Gospel of John records Jesus’ first sign, the turning of water into wine, which happened in Cana, and you guessed it, Cana is located in Galilee of the Gentiles as well. Why does this matter?

Read these words:

Nevertheless the gloom will not be upon her who is distressed,
As when at first He lightly esteemed
The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali,
And afterward more heavily oppressed her,
By the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan,
In Galilee of the Gentiles.
The people who walked in darkness
Have seen a great light;
Those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death,
Upon them a light has shined. Isaiah 9:1-2 NKJV

Zebulun and Naphtali were two tribes given the land in the Northern Territories of Israel, by the Sea of Galilee. These were the regions which were greatly distressed because of the sinfulness of the all the Northern tribes. They were the peoples who were the first to experience enemy incursions. Their territory and people were overrun and thrown into exile as the first conquests which eventually would swallow up all of the Northern Territory. They experienced great oppression. But now, that is the place, seven centuries later, which is bathed in the light of Jesus Christ. His work and His ministry is the shining light that breaks oppression and throws off distress.

Today’s simple verse is more than a geographical reference. It is a strong invitation to walk in the light of Jesus Christ. It is a call to examine your life, are you walking in despair in these Covid-19 times? Are you feeling hopeless because of circumstances in your life? Ah, look to Jesus Christ. He is the Light of Life.

The Jews were seeking to kill Jesus. He was fully aware of the plots and trials wicked people would hurl against Him, but He walked in the blessedness of His Father’s protection, sharing the love and mercy of His Father in heaven with all who were in need and did so, until the hour was right for Him to become the sacrifice that takes away sin. Perhaps today is the time of light breaking through the gloom of your heart and soul, perhaps now is the hour when the shining presence of Jesus Christ will transform you.

Mighty Father in heaven, if You should record all our sins, who among us could withstand Your judgment and wrath. But the Bible teaches us You hold in Your hand forgiveness—full forgiveness that meets our every need. Oh God of Glory, thank You for the shining light of Jesus Christ and His great salvation. Today, Jesus, You Who are the radiance of the Father’s glory, bring many sons and daughters to glory. Encourage those who are wandering, discouraged in gloom and darkness. Triune God of Splendor, Blessed are You, now and always. Amen.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l8pCbtLeXzc&list=RDzyIR4N5EFt8&index=3