Today’s scripture: John 14:25-31 (NRSV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me in this passage? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Christen Peters):
What wonderful gifts Christ left us!
First, we get the gift of the Holy Spirit, the Advocate. Our own personal intercessor who is always here, always with us, and always teaching us. How many times have you sat in church on a Sunday, listening to the sermon, only to forget some of the details well before the next Sunday rolls around? Christ knew that even those walking with him would forget some of the details. And Christ loved them — and us — so much that he wanted to make sure we were never without the same loving guidance he showed.
And in today’s world, who among us couldn’t use a little peace? I am intrigued by the phrase, “I do not give to you as the world gives.” Think about how we move through our daily lives. We fly through our days, asking others how they are without waiting for an answer. “Have a good day” trips off of our tongues with hardly a thought at all. The peace that Christ is offering is something far deeper and more intentional. And I think that we’re being told here that we have to seek it more deeply and intentionally to truly receive it.
And the greatest gift of all is that which Christ gave by facing death in this world, so that we could have eternal life in the next.
Thought for the day: Do I truly recognize the gifts Christ has given me? Do I appreciate them the way that I should?
Today, let’s join together in prayer for: Jesus MCC’s Oasis Groups, and especially for those who lead and host the groups.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. Use the item above as a starting point, or consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.