WORKING WITH OUR FATHER

John 5:16-17
16 For this cause the Jews persecuted Jesus, and sought to kill him, because he did these things on the Sabbath. 17 But Jesus answered them, “My Father is still working, so I am working, too.” (WEB)

Jesus did many things that enraged the religious leaders of the day. They couldn't see past their own legalism and insecurities to appreciate the amazing miracles He was performing in their midst. Though people were miraculously healed, all they could see was that Jesus was doing these things on the Sabbath. They truly didn't have a heart to see people set free but were more preoccupied with keeping a bunch of rules that were not life-giving.

Can you imagine how they felt when Jesus responded to their murderous attack on Him by telling them that since His Dad (Almighty God) was still working, He too had to work even it if meant breaking some of their man-made rules. I am sure this did not go over well when they heard it!

Because of our union with Christ, we get a daily chance to work with our Father, too. And just as Jesus did when He was physically on earth, our heavenly Father may lead us into work that may enrage the legalistic people in our midst.

My prayer today is that each of us would know intimately that we are not left alone to do the work that God requires. He is always close by—in fact, He is the One who does the work through us! All of the resources of the Godhead (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) live within us and work with us to accomplish all that He has planned. It is an amazing thought to be able to get up every morning and go to work with our Dad!

Philippians 2:12-13
12 So then, my beloved, even as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. 13 For it is God who works in you both to will and to work, for his good pleasure. (WEB)