OK, now you're done reading (you did read it, right?). Go back and look for some things in this passage. Take some time to do this. Really slow down, let it soak in. Don't worry, you don't have to respond to these below.
- Look for the main theme.
- Look for words/phrases that repeat.
- Find the different "characters" that play a role in this section. Who do they represent?
- Ask yourself, "Why is this in Scripture?"
If you really read into what Jesus is saying, this is a matter of life and death. Not necessarily physical life here on earth. But eternal life. A better life for now and the future (note: better doesn't mean more comfortable, without difficulty, etc...). By following this Scripture, you can remain in Christ, which is a better life than life without Christ. He really does care about you. He knows you. He allows you to remain "attached" to him. And as we remain attached, we grow.
Hopefully you have experienced this in your own life. Sure, we aren't perfect at remaining attached to Jesus. But I hope that you have grown in your faith as you've spent time with Jesus.
This is what we want to give to other people. We want them to experience this life with Christ, a better life both now and in the future. We want others to be able to attach themselves to Christ, to experience His love, to experience the love of His people.
We aren't going to Costa Rica to be saviors, have a cool experience, or because we are obligated to go. We are going to point others to the Savior so they can experience Him, and to allow others to desire to walk close to Him and serve Him.
That's my story - that Jesus saved me, that I can experience God through Jesus, and because of that I want to follow and serve Him wherever He leads.
This is what we are called to, to invite people into life. Will you follow the call? Respond to these questions:
- Why do you think Jesus used the imagery that He used in this passage?
- What's love got to do with it? Why was love referenced so much when talking about remaining in Christ?
