JESUS SPEAKING
“Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to my Father. And whatever you ask in my name, that I will do, that the Father be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in my name, I will do it” (John 14: 12-14.)
INSPIRED THOUGHTS
Jesus begins this scripture with a declarative statement, saying “most assuredly.” Perhaps a more modern translation is, ‘without a doubt;’ whatever the translation, the underlying meaning is ‘what I am about to say to you is unquestionably true.’ This declaration however hinges upon the next statement He makes; “he who believes in me.” The focus of miraculous works does not come from human ability, but from a belief in Jesus Christ. He states that the faithful believers will not only do the works he had been doing, but that their works would exceed those he performed while on the earth. Although Jesus rose from the dead and ascended into heaven, his body remains upon the earth to this day. All power, all direction, and all good works come from the Father, and Jesus Christ, the head of our body who is seated in heaven at the right hand of God.
Trees are one of God’s most beautiful creations. A tree is primarily made up of two parts. The visible portion, consisting of the trunk and the crown (with its tender leaves), and the roots which dig deep down into the soil. Only half of a tree is visible to the human eye. Still, trees are not securely anchored in place by their branches, leaves, or trunks; no matter how splendid they may appear. They remain upright because of what exists beneath the earth. All trees absorb life sustaining water and nutrients through their roots, deep down, in places that are hidden from sight. Like the tree, today the body of Christ is also made up of two parts. I cannot see Jesus Christ as he sits at the right hand of God, much like I don’t see the roots of a tree as they anchor it and bring it life; but no tree can spread its branches and thrive unless what is unseen exists. Today, every person who has faith in the unseen, risen Lord, becomes a part of the visible, and very real body of Jesus Christ that went missing from the tomb. The Son of God is the head of the body; directing us, speaking to us, moving us in the direction He wants us to go, so that He can continue doing His miracles in this place.
If we currently have Faith in Jesus Christ we are a part of his body. And as a part of his body, all the good works that we do, He does through us. Jesus Christ, and God the Father get the credit for the miracles and the healings; every orphanage built, every hospital constructed in His name, every life that is transformed, represents the continuing work of Jesus Christ upon this earth. One way that we can draw from his power is to pray without ceasing; to lift up our requests to him, no matter how small or insignificant they might seem. The God of the universe has made us a promise; if we ask then we shall receive. So ask in expectation of receiving, and be mindful to ask according to His will, and you’ll find this scripture fulfilled in your life. Miracles will occur in you, and in the lives of those around you, as He uses you to accomplish His works.
“Lord heavenly Father, we ask that You would give us more of Your Holy Spirit. Increase our faith and bring us closer to You and to Your Son. We want to see Your Glory; we want to believe as little children, and we want to be productive members of Your Body, here in this place. Guide us and direct us; and use us for Your Glory. We love You Father, we praise You, and we thank You, and we ask and pray all of these things, according to Your will, in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.” God bless all of you.
Jesus Speaks 