Lord, is it I?

Bible Reading:  Mark 14:12-21

 

Last Sunday, Our Redeemer Church English choir sang a very meaningful song, titled, ‘Lord, is it I?’  I am unable to get the name of the lyric writer, but the chorus captures a powerful thought:

Lord, is it I?  Lord, is it I?
Someone has failed thee, Lord, is it I?
Millions are dying, oh, hear them crying 
Someone has failed thee, Lord, is it I?

The song speaks of the souls lost due to our inaction, our indifference, and our disobedience to the Great Commission.  The Bible reminds us that faith without action is incomplete (James 2:17).  To love Christ is to love those for whom He gave His life.

 

In the Upper Room on the Passover night, Jesus told His disciples that one of them who ate with Him would betray Him,  and they began to be sorrowful, and to say to Him one by one, “Is it I?” (Mark 14:19).  Then Judas also asked, “Rabbi, is it I?” Jesus said yes, but Judas did not take that reply to heart (Matthew 25:26).

 

This searching question requires an honest answer!  

 

The question is not meant to condemn, but to awaken our hearts.  It is an invitation for repentance, obedience, and renewed compassion.

 

The rich young ruler came to Jesus, asking what good he should do to inherit eternal life.  Jesus advised him to keep the commandments, and he replied that he had kept them from his youth.  He then asked,  “What do I still lack?” Jesus said,  “If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” (Matthew 19:20-22).  But he did not want to act upon what Jesus said and went away sorrowful.  Judas asked the right question, but did not act upon what Jesus said and went on to betray Jesus.

 

Asking the right question alone is not enough; we have to respond appropriately.

 

My friend, during this season of Lent, ask yourself whether you are nailing Jesus back to the Cross by continuing in sin.  Ask yourself if you are being a stumbling block to your neighbour coming to Jesus because of your lifestyle.  Ask yourself if you truly want to follow Jesus, or if it is all just a show and hypocrisy.  May the Lord turn the searching question into faithful action.

 

Prayer:  Lord Jesus, search our hearts and show us where we have been silent or slow to obey.  Break our indifference, align our lives with Your will, and make us faithful instruments of Your love.  Amen.

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