Unless a grain of wheat

Some Greeks have come seeking Jesus.  That is how the Gospel lesson for 3/25 opens.  (John12.20-33)
These anonymous Greeks have put us on notice that Jesus' ministry to and work on behalf of the entire world is coming to  a close.  Not just Israel, but Greeks (meaning anyone who isn't a Jew) as well.

Jesus takes no time to pat himself on the back or to receive the accolades of the people.  For him, this is but one more indicator that the time has come for him to be 'lifted up.'  That is how John talks about Jesus and the cross; Jesus is never the victim, but rather reigns over creation from his cross. 

He gives us this image, '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.'  Jesus is the grain of wheat; he is going to die. 

If you follow the reading you will learn, yet again, that those who follow the Jesus, the Christ, will be asked to die as well.

What the world hasn't figured out, I think, is that we will all die.  There is no other way out of this life.

Whether we die in Christ or out there on our own seems to be the primary difference.  Whether our death glorifies God or simply saddens our friends is another.  Whether our lives have 'borne much fruit' or not is another consideration. 

Here, however, is the promise:  "... where I am, there will my servant be also." 
Peace be with you.