John 5:36-40

John 5:36-40 
English Standard Version (ESV)

  Several years ago, Rachel and I were eating breakfast at an outdoor restaurant where the birds were rather aggressive.  We watched in amazement as a couple sat down at their table -- the husband immediately got a plate, then went back for something else while the wife busied herself in her phone.  She was oblivious to the birds that landed on their table and began to eat her husband's breakfast because she was so focused on her phone.  She completely missed what was happening in front of her!
  This passage is, in some regards, Jesus telling the Jewish leaders of the day to get their faces out of their phones and pay attention to the world in front of them.  They're supposed to be leading the church, but they are so focused on the past that they can't see the fulfillment of their prophecies in front of them.  They're driving a car at high speeds down the freeway but have their eyes glued to the rearview mirror.
  Jesus came as the fulfillment of the prophecies.  The Scriptures testify to the fullness of God's love, and in Jesus Christ, we see that love on full display.  He came to save, to give life, and while many refused to hear the words that he spoke and refused to investigate the miracles he performed, we have the benefit of both the Old Testament prophecies and the New Testament reports.  We can compare and see if he is reliable, and we can also see the fullness of God's redemptive action.
  What's just as important is that we pay attention to see what God is doing today.  God is still at work, still challenging us and leading us forward.  May we be focused on listening for God's Word today, and if we are comfortable, may we allow the Holy Spirit to lead us into discomfort, and if we are afflicted, may we hear the comforting words of grace.