In Psalm 51, we learn that because of God’s steadfast love and abundant mercy, even the most heinous sins can be forgiven if we but ask with a contrite heart.
Because the world hated Jesus, it will also hate his followers. But in John 15:18-16:4, we are encouraged to bear witness to Jesus and to not fall away - no matter the cost.
In John 15:1-17, we learn that the only way to bear lasting spiritual fruit is by abiding in Jesus - the true vine.
In a world filled with uncertainty, it can be easy to forget about what we have been given by God through Jesus. In John 14:15-31, we see at least three gifts that Jesus has given his disciples to strengthen them for the days ahead.
In John 14:1-14, Jesus speaks to troubled hearts, calling us to trust in him, rest in his promises, follow his path, and rely on his power, for he alone is the way, and the truth, and the life.
In John 13:21-38, Jesus calls his followers to love one another with the same sacrificial, humble, and selfless love that he has shown us, so that the world will know we are his followers.
In John 13:1-20, we see that Jesus loved his own to the very end by humbling himself to the point of death on the cross. We are called to follow his example by joyfully serving others in humility and love, pointing them to him.
On this Baptism of the Lord Sunday, we are reminded that the voice of the Lord is powerful. But the same powerful voice that makes the earth shake is the same powerful voice that comforts the people of God. As Psalm 95:7-8 implores us, “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.”
On this Epiphany Sunday, we are reminded that Jesus Christ is the King of kings and Lord of lords. Do our words, our actions, our thoughts, our lives, our giving, our prayers reflect this reality?
In this passage, we see that the greatest act of love this world has ever seen is the gift of Jesus Christ - our Saviour, our Shepherd, our King.