We as believers are under an advisory of sorts: not a temporary one like the high winds we've experienced, but a permanent one that has eternal consequences. Pastor Joy shared with us this past Sunday, and I quote, two related advisories:
1) "There is no love where there is no obedience."
2) "How will we know the experience of overflowing joy if we're not obedient?"
It is a profound thing to reflect on. The discourse found in John chapter 15 is not given to the masses, but to the few who have devoted themselves to participation in Jesus's ministry. And what did He say to them? He said, in essence, "Guys, do what I tell you. Love like I love you." (see John 15:10-14)
The implication is that we, the ones who claim closeness to Christ, are just as prone to disobedience as the Judas Iscariots of the world. If nothing else, this reality should keep us anchored in humility and desperately petitioning God for His grace and mercy.
Isaiah foretold it. Like sheep, we have all gone astray; we have all wandered off to do our own thing; and the Sovereign Lord has poured our sinfulness onto the Sinless One, our Lord Jesus. (see Isaiah 53:6) We are in need of the constant redemptive work of Christ in us, through His Spirit.
What can we bring to the table? Obedience. To the obedient soul, our Christ pours out the fruit of His Spirit. That is, we love the unlovely; we display joy even in our greatest hour of darkness; we exude peace in the midst of a chaotic world.
Yes, Lord! As we say "Yes" in grateful, loving, joyful obedience to You, we beg You to fulfill Your word in us. Cause us to exclusive love of You. Cause us to be exceedingly joyful in You. Cause us to experience peace from You. And cause us to demonstrate these attributes as a testimony of Your greatness, so that the world will be drawn in to Your saving life. Amen.
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