"Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds. Anyone who loves their life will lose it, while anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me."

John 12:24-26

Have you ever been involved in drafting a vision or values statement for a church or other organization? It’s challenging to sum up in a few words the core of your corporate identity and what matters to you. It might be easier to use a picture. Jesus does this when he learns that some Greeks in Jerusalem have asked to see him. Instead of showing them his physical appearance, he describes the essence of what he’s about by using an illustration: when a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it takes root and grows to produce many seeds (v. 24). Jesus is talking, obliquely, of his imminent death, through which many will receive eternal life. He is clear that this is the most important aspect of his calling and identity at this critical moment in his ministry.

What action do we need to take to implement this vision? Jesus is clear about this too. He tells the crowd that he is setting a pattern to be followed by those who are in his service (v. 26). Like all of Jesus’ followers, we are called to devote our lives to him—and if we do, the Father will honor us.

Closing Prayer

Jesus, I ask that you make your plan for my life mine. Please help me follow in your footsteps, focused on doing what you call me to do and eager to see you use me for the sake of your kingdom (edited from Encounter with God).