This week’s Gospel text is filled with a glorious, intimate invitation to remain (or some translations say abide) in Jesus' love. In effect, Jesus says, “I love you so much that I want you to come and be one with me”. How do we begin to picture what this might be like?
We all have times when we have fallen. We may have messed up a
task that cost us a promotion or ruined our reputation because of a wrong decision. Maybe we broke someone’s heart, leaving a relationship in tatters. Then, a kind, loving person encouraged us to get up, dust ourselves off, and start again. They believed in us and saw us for the person we are.
We have all had hopes and dreams of achieving something or becoming a certain type of person. We gravitate to like-minded people or are
inspired by someone. We notice what they do, listen to their advice, and keep company with them. We find joy in what that relationship develops within us.
That is like remaining or abiding in Jesus. We choose to follow Jesus’ lead. We take time to learn what Jesus did, how Jesus reacted, what Jesus said, and even try to understand what Jesus was thinking. We want to be associated with Jesus. For some people, this begins with a
profound mystical experience. For most, it starts with a curiosity, which leads to more regular church attendance or joining a bible study group. We begin to learn to pray and have conversations with Jesus. Then, one day, we see the world through Jesus’ eyes. An intimate relationship with Jesus changes our relationship with Jesus and our relationship with the rest of creation.
What led to your curiosity about Jesus?
What is your relationship with Jesus like?
Has it in any way impacted the way you see the world?
Reflections by Cherie-Lynn van der Merwe
