3rd Week of Easter
Everything that the Father gives me will come to me, and I will not reject anyone who comes to me. (John 6:37)
Did you catch that?
The Father is giving you to Jesus. If you think that statement is meant to be little more than an empty platitude, say it again slowly. Focus on each word, and let them settle deep in your heart. You are a gift that God the Father is giving to Jesus. What does this say about you?
The Father is giving you to Jesus. Well, for one, this says that no matter how your days feel—holy, humdrum, or harried—each one of them is filled with divine opportunities. You’re not just a spectator in life. You are an important actor in a great cosmic drama. What’s more, you have been infused with the life and power of the Trinity, with all you need to play your part in this drama.
The Father is giving you to Jesus. A loving, generous God like your heavenly Father would never dream of giving a cheap gift to his Son! This can only mean that you are very valuable. You’re a masterpiece, a crown of his creation. No cost was too high to pay for you. It also means that God will never revoke your worth. He is completely invested in you. In fact, you are his treasure. He rejoices over you with exuberant, loud singing (Zephaniah 3:17)! It’s not based on how you do each day; it’s based on who you are.
The Father is giving you to Jesus. As a gift to the Lord, your life has been set apart, or made holy. Every day you have a divinely appointed purpose. The Father is giving you to Jesus so that you can give Jesus to the people around you. And you can do that simply by the witness of your life—by living for Christ as the gift that you are.
Today, keep this in mind: you are a special, unique person created by God. There is no one like you. You are a special treasure. You have a divine purpose!
“Lord, I come to you today knowing that you will never reject me. As you gave yourself to me, I give my life to you.”
Acts 8:1-8; Psalm 66:1-7
Daily Marriage Tip for April 22, 2015:
(Especially for parents of teens) You’re seldom right (in your teenager’s eyes). Stay tight with your spouse because you need each other to discern when to be flexible and when to hang tough. Remind each other you’re not crazy.