Strife, arguments and hatred for Jesus rose up from most of the religious leaders. His fame brought jealousy and anger for those in authority, afraid that people would follow Jesus and let go of all the laws that bound the people like ropes tied about themselves.
Jesus often walked with the crowds of people singing as they made their way to Jerusalem three times a year. One of these festivals was called “Tabernacles” or “Booths,” recalling the time when our Hebrew ancestors built tents in the wilderness on the way to the Promised Land. This time, all kinds of suspicions from some, and faith in Jesus from others, go back and forth in this chapter.
However, watch what Jesus says. The last day of the festival is called “Rejoicing in the Torah.” The word “Torah” means God’s love pouring down like rain. They found this image just perfect for praying for rain. Keep this in mind when you read toward the end of this chapter from verse 32. Imagine: rivers of living water springing up from within us!
Bible Breaths Learn More…
Fridays are dedicated to the Gospels. This year, we generally read from the Gospel of Mark,
except during most of Lent and Easter when we read from the Gospel of John.
These Firestarters are for families with children. For the Firestarters in the original edition, I recommend the ebook. You will have the entire program of well over a thousand of these introductions with you on your phone or tablet! Check the menu options at the site for more information.
The Bible Through the Seasons 