OCT 13

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.  I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”  John 10:10-11

My son and I were talking about a couple of his friends today.  When I inquired of their ambitions/goals in their life as students at the university, he mentioned, “They don’t have much purpose in life right now.  They just haven’t figured it out.”  Perhaps you are one who struggles with knowing the purpose of your life.  Jesus did not have this problem.

Jesus knew His purpose and it is expressed in these simple yet powerful words in John’s gospel.  Jesus’ purpose is to give life through His sacrifice.  Jesus also acknowledges the purpose of His enemy, the devil (thief).  The evil one’s purpose is to steal, kill and destroy.  Completely opposite.

There may be more than one spiritual power, but only One that is good and full of life.  Abundant life.  Eternal life.  Trust in Jesus for this Life.  May your life’s purpose be built on these promises of Jesus.

OCT 14

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through me.”  John 14:6

Exclusive or Inclusive?  Some people view these words of Jesus as harsh, unloving, and exclusive.  They say Jesus is keeping people out of heaven by saying that He is the only way.  However, the truth of Jesus’ words here reveal He is actually inclusive.  He is stating that there is indeed a way for all people to come to God the Father and have eternal life.  The “way and truth and life” are outside of us and our abilities through good deeds or even great knowledge.  Jesus has made the way possible for all people to be saved.  Sure, He states that there is no other way . . . but He is providing the way for all people through Himself.  He doesn’t want people to be misled and trust in their reason or abilities or their false gods they’ve concocted.  Trust in Him.  He has already made the way to the Father possible through His perfect life, His death on the cross, and His resurrection from the dead.  We don’t have to look elsewhere.  For this, let us be thankful.