Where Do We Stand?

Statements are made and sides are chosen. Ideologies are declared and some accept while others reject. Sometimes there is no grey area. Sometimes there is no room for straddling the fence. Sometimes we are left with only one of two choices of where we will stand? There are times when some are willing to remain while others turn and walk away. When we have chosen to stand, how does it impact us to see others leave? Do we ever wonder if we have made the wrong choice?

After Jesus fed the 5000, this multitude was so impressed they were ready to take Him by force and make Him a king. ( John 6:15) On the next day, as the crowd continued to follow Him, Jesus knew it was because they had eaten their fill that they continued to seek Him. ( John 6:26) Jesus then tried to turn their focus away from physical things to spiritual. ( John 6:27) When the focus turned to His flesh and blood, it was a teaching many found very hard to handle. Jesus wanted them to focus away from the temporary and understand what related to the eternal. That is still our need today, as it is far too easy to be short-sighted when it comes to life. It was the eternal life linked to Jesus as the true "Bread of Life" that was in need of acceptance as three times Jesus stated, "I will raise him up on the last day." ( John 6:40, 44, and 54)

Then we read. . .
"After this MANY of his disciples TURNED BACK and NO LONGER WALKED WITH HIM." ( John 6:66 ESV)

Seeing the Lord's popularity, I wonder how this sight impacted the Twelve. Would it have discouraged them? Would they have wondered about their own following? Or did they see the line drawn in the sand and the choice that needed to be made with regard to WHICH SIDE OF THE LINE would be chosen?

Jesus then turned His attention toward the Twelve. . .
"So Jesus said to the Twelve, 'DO YOU WANT TO GO AWAY AS WELL?'" ( John 6:67 ESV)

Where would they choose to stand? Jesus knew, but had they really resolved it in their own minds? Making that decision at this point was what would help sustain them through what was to come.

It was Peter who responded, emphatically declaring on WHICH SIDE OF THE LINE he chose to stand!
"(68) Simon Peter answered him, 'LORD, TO WHOM SHALL WE GO? You have the words of eternal life, (69) and we have believed, and have come to know, that YOU ARE the Holy One of God.'" ( John 6:66-69 ESV)

To Peter there was no other choice! There were no other options! Though many may choose to stand on the other side of the line, the reality is there truly is no other alternative when it comes to eternal life.

Jesus later would unequivocally declare. . .
"Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. NO ONE COMES TO THE FATHER EXCEPT THROUGH ME." ( John 14:6 ESV)

Where do we stand? May we be resolved to remain standing with Jesus regardless of what the multitudes may choose!

Have a great day ACKNOWLEDGING THE ONLY REAL CHOICE!
Carl

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