Jesus, the son of God, the living word,  the way, the truth, and the life.

What an introduction! There is surely nothing and nobody to compare. He is truly larger than life. How could someone with an introduction like that desire to pursue a relationship with you or me? 

In John 15 as Jesus prepared the disciples for His departure, He made it abundantly clear. 

John 15:12-14 NKJV

[12] This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. [13] Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends. [14] You are My friends if you do whatever I command you.

The people that Jesus spoke to were not merely strangers, acquaintances, or students. These people were deeply involved together for months and years of their lives. They knew each other very well. They traveled together and ate together, laughed and cried together. These were Jesus’ dearest friends whom He loved deeply, and there was no greater love He could show than to lay down His life. The people Jesus was closest to had a front row seat to see their friend – battered, beaten, and bleeding.

Jesus said to keep His commandments is to be His friend. Just like the disciples, Jesus cares deeply for me and you. He walks with us in our everyday and He knows us well. By keeping His commandments, we love and honor His sacrifice. It is to say “Jesus your death was not in vain! Your death had purpose, it was for me! You were enough, and you are still enough, Jesus!” 

Thank you Lord, for loving us so much.