Lay Your Head on His Shoulder

The disciple that Jesus dearly loved was at the right of him at the table and was leaning his head on Jesus. John 13:23 (The Passion Translation, TPT)

The twelve disciples and Jesus had gathered in an upper room to celebrate the Passover meal in what would become known as the last supper. John makes special mention that he was next to Jesus and that he was leaning his head on Jesus. Some translations say that John was resting his head on Jesus’ bosom, or his chest. He also calls himself the disciple that Jesus dearly loved.

First of all, John was not being arrogant or conceited in calling himself the disciple that Jesus loved. In fact, any disciple could claim that title, including you and me. He dearly loves us all. John was simply letting the reader know that he knew he was loved.

Because John understood that Jesus loved him, he leaned in and rested his head on Jesus. He leaned in close in a similar manner that a friend would lean on a confidante or a child would lean on a parent. John knew the Master loved him and he rested and drew comfort from that love.

Any of the disciples who were there could have drawn near to Jesus and rested their heads on His chest. However, scripture only tells of one who chose to do so- John. John was the only one who trusted in the relationship enough to lean in.

And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him. I John 4:16 (NKJV)

In like manner, we can lean in and have intimate communion with Jesus. We can be as close to the Lord as we decide to be. The choice is ours. We simply need to believe the love that He has for us. Lay your head on His shoulder and draw near.