Scripture for Today: John 10:10 “…I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”

What was originally considered a flop and put on the shelf for years has now become a Christmas classic!  It’s a Wonderful Life tells the story of George Bailey (James Stewart) whose dreams for himself have never been realized.  It wasn’t until an angel shows him what life would have been like had he never lived, that George sees just how wonderful his life has been!  In the words of one of the cast’s few surviving actors, Karolyn Grimes (little ZuZu) “As long as we have faith, family and friends – you know what – we’re good.”

Today’s verse is a promise from Jesus, our Good Shepherd.  He came to give to His followers a life that is wonderful and full.  That does not mean that it is a life without difficulty.  We have plenty of trouble in this world but we can also experience peace as He has overcome it (John 16:33).  The richness and fulness come from our relationship with Him.  Any other kind of life is missing that spiritual dimension for which we are made.  It is only with the Giver of life that we can experience life as it was meant to be.

I do not want to be distracted by what the world says is a wonderful life.  Of course I enjoy lights and glitter, presents and life’s comfort.  I enjoy friends and family, even and despite the occasional discord.  But Jesus says HE is the Life.  Everything else pales in comparison!  When I experience that intimate daily relationship with my Creator, I experience life as it is meant to be lived.  He makes my life full by His very presence!

Thank you Lord, for the wonderful life You give.

Scripture for Today: John 15:15 “I no longer call you servants because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.”

This 1954 musical with Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye is a feel-good movie about friendship.  The plot begins with Danny’s character, Phil, saving the life of Bing’s character, Bob during World War II.  This begins a long friendship of performing together.  After throwing in some love interests and lots of miscommunications, they help out their former commanding officer who owns a lodge but has no clients as there is no snow.  Their performance brings them in and of course, the story ends with snow falling.

Today’s verse is surprising!  Jesus is calling His disciples friends rather than servants.  His relationship with them is closer than a master/servant one.  There is closeness because there is meaningful communication.  Jesus shares His heart, His plans and all that He knows from God the Father.  But even though they are friends, there are still commands to be obeyed (verse 14).  And the greatest love possible is when one lays down their life for a friend (verse 13).

To be friends with Jesus is an amazing thought!  But what a unique friendship it is.  There is no other like it.  First of all, I obey Him.  I show my love for Him by acknowledging HIs authority.  My life is lived for this friend!  And He reveals to me what He has planned in His Word.  Jesus is that friend that “sticks closer than a brother” (Prov. 18:24).  He  will never leave me or forsake me (Deut. 31:8).  No other friend can promise that!  And this friend has laid down His life for me!

Thank you Lord, for Your incredible friendship!