John 15:9-17

In the gospel of John, Jesus says: "You did not choose me. No, I chose you, and I commissioned you to go out and to bear fruit."

In the fourth gospel Jesus says: "As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you; abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full." (vs. 9-11) The commandment Jesus gives his disciples is that they love one another, as he has loved them. This is why he has chosen them to be his disciples. And this is what the author of this gospel believes the church is to represent to the world.

Do we feel chosen to bear the fruit of the gospel in the world? Is our love for one another great enough to call the world to greater compassion and forgiveness? Is the joy of Christ in us, so that our joy is full? And can we share this joy with others? May this be our prayer for the new year.

Grace and peace...Bob
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