November 25, 2024 - 1 John 1

John begins his epistle:  “That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we looked upon and have touched with our hands, concerning the word of life--the life was made manifest, and we have seen it, and testify to it and proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and was made manifest to us--that which we have seen and heard we proclaim also to you” (1:1-3).  Like John, though with no physical touch, we have known Jesus and we have spent time with him.  We love to read the stories!  Yes, the world so often thinks we’re crazy and deluded.  But, then, what should we expect?  They have not had the same experience we have had.  They do not know the joy and peace that we have.  Our joy is complete (1:4).  Now, that’s life.  And that’s life abundant, to know Jesus and to have fellowship with him!

Our heavenly Father calls,

And Christ invites us near;

With both, our friendship shall be sweet,

And our communion dear.

How large his bounties are!

What various stores of good,

Diffused from our Redeemer’s hand,

And purchased with his blood.   -- Philip Doddridge (16th century)