TODAY’S WORD…

Jesus said, “If God really were your Father, you would love Me, because I came from God and now I am here. I did not come on my own authority, but He sent Me.

Why do you not understand what I say? It is because you cannot bear to listen to My message.”

– John 8:42-43

REFLECTION…

In today’s context, Jesus seems to be speaking to what seems to be an increasing number of Christians whose faith has become almost non-existent. These so-called Christians tell you, somewhat dismissively, that of course they believe in God, however, many will also readily admit that they do not really go beyond that.

God? “Erm, yes I believe in God.”

The Christian religion? “OK…but not as cool as, say, Buddhism. Besides, too demanding; too many Thou-shalt-nots.”

The Crucifix? “Yes, yes, but too violent an image, don’t you think!?”

The Holy Spirit? “That’s a difficult one!”

Church? “Boring! I don’t really bother anymore.”

Claiming to believe in God, does not necessarily mean loving and honouring Him

and obeying His Commandments. When we truly love God, we determinedly seek to do His will. We embrace His Son, Jesus, place our full trust in Him, acknowledge Him as our Teacher and Saviour, and we joyfully proclaim Him – through the power of the Holy Spirit acting in us – as the Son of the Living God.

However, what Jesus teaches doesn’t always suit everybody, and when self-centredness takes over, many of us would rather not listen. We pretend not to understand…and we wander off…

PRAYER…

Lord Jesus, You are the Son of the Living God…and I want to love You with all my heart, mind, soul and strength!