An Amazing Paradox for Holy Week wonderings

Get familiar with this The Message version of our story in John 12.20-36

‘Unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies it bears much fruit’ (John 20.24). Jesus’ words were prompted by the arrival of some Gentiles to see him (John 12.20-21). How could he possibly reach such a vast mission field? It was only by surrendering his life and through the resurrection becoming a universal spirit.

What is true of the natural world is true of life at large. There are many individuals who ‘die’ to their personal ambitions or bury their hopes of a super holiday or whatever in order to help their starving fellow human beings. Jesus is saying that it is only by giving away life that we retain it. There is actually statistical evidence that people who keep up helping others often live longer!

Jesus made the point more than once. “Those who save their lives will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake and the gospel will save it” (Mark 8.35). Think of what the world would have lost had it not been for individuals who were prepared to forget their personal safety, security and selfish gain or advancement. We may not be called to such heroic acts, but how many of us suddenly find ourselves giving up an afternoon in the garden or whatever and go and see some forgotten soul in a care home or some other challenge. Experiences when we, so to speak, fall into the ground bring their own reward, like the ‘much fruit’ of which Jesus spoke. There is plenty here for Lent – and the rest of the year!.


Jack McKelvey


St Matthews / Edge Lane, East Manchester

Pray for Jack and his family and ministry in East Manchester this Holy Week that God will continue to move through them as they reach towards others and identify with that community. Amen