Saturday, June 30
Abiding in Jesus, and Jesus Abiding in Us
Narrative Lectionary Daily Devotions written by Kace Leetch from Clergy Stuff.
We are often taught to "abide" in Jesus. By abiding in Jesus, we live in Jesus' ways. We speak his words. We walk in his footsteps. By abiding in Jesus we start to live, act, speak, work, and exist as Jesus does.
1 John 2 also tells us that Jesus abides in us. Imagine what that might mean. If our abiding in Jesus means that we emulate Jesus, does it follow that Jesus' abiding in us means Jesus emulates us? If so, maybe that means that Jesus expresses himself through our words, thoughts, and actions. So when we behave admirably, Jesus shines through us. When we behave despicably, we are dimming Jesus' light that tries to shine through us.
I like the idea that abiding is reciprocal. We abide in him and he abides in us, too. I like the thought that our relationship with Jesus flows both ways. Jesus is as affected by us as we are by him. Knowing Jesus is affected by my thoughts, words, and actions makes me want to work harder to think, speak, and act admirably.
Narrative Lectionary Text: 1 John 2:26-28
I write these things to you concerning those who would deceive you. As for you, the anointing that you received from him abides in you, and so you do not need anyone to teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about all things, and is true and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, abide in him.
And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he is revealed we may have confidence and not be put to shame before him at his coming.