When you are at a crossroads - This is my story, Week 2
“23Jesus replied, “Now the time has come for the Son of Man to enter into his glory. 24I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels—a plentiful harvest of new lives. 25Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity. 26Anyone who wants to serve me must follow me, because my servants must be where I am. And the Father will honor anyone who serves me.
27 “Now my soul is deeply troubled. Should I pray, ‘Father, save me from this hour’? But this is the very reason I came! 28Father, bring glory to your name.”
Then a voice spoke from heaven, saying, “I have already brought glory to my name, and I will do so again.” ”
In college, I visited the Yanghwajin Foreign Missionary Cemetery in Seoul, where I was moved by the lives of missionaries who gave everything to bring the gospel to Korea. One gravestone read, “If I had a thousand lives to give, Korea should have them all.” Their sacrifices reminded me that the gospel, though free to receive, came at great cost. Their obedience led me to ask: how should I live in response? I began to seek God’s calling over my life, realizing that my life was not my own but meant for His kingdom.
Turning to John 12, we see Jesus at a crucial crossroad. Though celebrated as king after raising Lazarus, He knew His true purpose was not political glory but sacrificial death. He spoke of a grain of wheat that must die to bear fruit, pointing to His own crucifixion. Despite public praise and the easy path before Him, Jesus chose the narrow way—one of suffering and surrender—because it glorified the Father and fulfilled His calling.
I too faced crossroads that tested my devotion. After gaining a secure job and career success, I began to drift from my calling. When I compromised my faith to please others, the Spirit convicted me. Eventually, I left my job, remembering the call to worship and to serve communities with compassion. Even when tempted by worldly opportunities, God reminded me of my purpose. Obedience to the narrow path, though costly, led to deep peace and joy.
So I ask you: what is your calling? And are you walking in it, or have you veered onto the broad path? What crossroad are you facing today? When tempted to please others or pursue comfort, may we remember that Jesus went before us, choosing the narrow road for our sake. May we, too, seek to glorify God above all else and follow His call with courage.
Prayer: Lord, help us discern our calling and give us strength to follow it, even when the path is difficult. May no one else sit on the throne of our hearts but You alone. Fill us with Your Spirit and lead us in the way that glorifies Your name. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
(Note: This summary was created based on an AI draft.)