Day 16

This was one of the most passionate speeches of Jesus Christ. He is before His disciples and encourages them to “abide” in Him. He uses the illustration of a vine and a branch. The branch is alive because it is connected to the vine. The vine is the source of life and as long as the branch “abides” or “remains” connected to the vine it will thrive. Jesus wanted the same for us. He comes and assures us, “I have loved you even as the Father has loved me.” How powerful is this? Jesus loves us in the same way that God the Father loved Him. What a supernatural love, and it is ours. And what does Jesus ask of us? He asks that we remain in His love. Can you imagine being at an exotic resort, basking in the sun, totally relaxed, enjoying the wind and the surf and the owner gives you the key to the place and says, “Remain here!” Jesus is saying, “I love you just like God the Father loves me and I want you to enjoy, bask in and take advantage of all the love I have for you!” And with this love comes a supernatural joy. A joy that completely fills us until it overflows. So today, think of your connection with Jesus Christ. Sense all the love He has for you and then rejoice. Let yourself overflow with His joy. “As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” John 15:9‭, ‬11.