Today’s Reading, John 16-18
Focal Scripture: John 17:23 “I am in them and you are in me, so that they may be made completely one, that the world may know you have sent me and have loved them as you have loved me.”
Knowing that you are loved is one of the greatest facts a person can hold onto in their lives. It changes a person for the best. It moves a person from self doubt to confidence. It is a great equalizer when things are difficult. I have also seen the effects of a person who does not believe they are loved or even cared for personally. It destroys them mentally. It changes how they view themselves and how they view the world and people around them. Love and the lack of love can define a persons future.
In today’s reading we see Jesus speaking about his relationship with his father. It is a perfect relationship and one that demonstrates perfect love. He wants future disciples to know that the father resides in him and he resides in his followers. He also wants them to know that they are loved and cared for deeply. God loves these disciples the same way he loves his son Jesus.
What does this mean for us today? It means that Jesus took time to pray for us who would become followers, even before we knew what we would believe. It also means that we are loved by Jesus and by God. This is a deep love. It is a love that was a conscious decision from the God of the universe.
If you are a person who has had a difficult past and you believe you are unloveable, know this truth. God loves you in a deep and meaningful way. He doesn’t love you out of obligation. He loves you from his personal choice. Despite what you have done, God loves you because of his son. If you are a believer you are forgiven and chosen. He will do a mighty work in your life and give you a peace that transcends all understanding.
If you are not a believer know he loves you and cares for you deeply. He wants you to be part of the family of God. He simultaneously loves you but also will judge you for your sin. To counter this judgement you can believe in Jesus and become one of his disciples. This act will change your current life and your future eternity. The son will live inside of you and you will experience the father’s love on a personal level.
If you never experienced true love know that you can today.
Tomorrow, I plan on reading John 19-21
