John 1

On Monday, April 27th I began reading the book of John. This post is dedicated to summarizing John 1: using the SOAP method (Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer).

S: "And John testified, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and he rested on him."

O: John was referencing Jesus Christ and testifying that he was indeed the Messiah. For many years, I always thought that a dove descended on Jesus because John 1 is such a popular book in the bible that I have heard many times, this was a mistake that I made. It wasn't until I took my time reading it that I realized it wasn't an actual dove that descended upon Jesus, but the Spirit who assumed a dove like appearance.

A: After I received the revelation about the dove it got me to realize that the Spirit of God can assume whatever form he desires. Doves are thought to be a sign of love, purity, and positivity; while crows are thought to be an omen of death. Crows serve as popular allegorical tropes for horror novels and/or movies. And yet, they're extremely knowledgeable and loyal. How can they too, not come from God? If he could send a raven to feed Elijah in his chosen exile, surely he can use a crow for something godly. For is not life and death in the hands of God? Then why have we come to fear it? Death. Why have we come to fear it? On Sunday, April 26th I was working in our den when I got up to stretch, and look out the window of our backdoor. Within seconds, a crow hurriedly flew up, startling the life out of me! In my timidity, I jumped. All while being captivated by the beauty of its black feathers, and its prowess. It was too big to balance itself on our line wire, but it managed to very gently balance itself enough for me to see its profile, before flying off into the distance. [In general, there have been a lot of crows in my neighborhood which we have attributed to the many deaths due to the coronavirus.] I know not, what message if any, it was sent to give me, but I choose to give God credit for having allowed me to see it, rather than receiving it as an omen from the enemy.

P: Father God, help me to see you in all the details rather than being quick to assign blame or credit to the enemy; for something that could very much be a part of your divine purpose for my life. In Jesus Name, I pray. Amen.

Closing Remarks: A Christian's testimony ought to accomplish what John the Baptist's testimony did: pointing people to Jesus so that they want to follow him. When you understand who Jesus is, you'll want others to know him. (This was taken from Tony Evans Bible Commentary)