Today's passage of Scripture is a bit lengthy, but hang with me... Take your time and read John 13:31-15:27. Don't rush through it...give it time to resonate a little.
Jesus is preparing His disciples for the events of the coming days. He knows that His death, resurrection and ascension will bring difficult days for them, and so He gives them some very important instructions: "Make sure you love each other, just like I have loved you."
Love...not just a warm feeling Jesus felt for these men. No, the kind of love He lived out for them manifested itself in deep compassion, humble service, genuine forgiveness. THIS was how He wanted them to love each other, especially once He was no longer with them in person.
Jesus goes on to reassure the men that He is not leaving them forever, only long enough to prepare a place for them in His Father's home (John 14:2). But perhaps this "home" is not like anything they (or we!) expect it to be.
Look at John 14:23. Where is this "home" that Jesus is preparing?
Perhaps the most reassuring message that Jesus left with His disciples was the knowledge that He was not leaving them alone. Instead, the Father would send His Holy Spirit to live with each of them in Jesus' absence. That same Spirit lives with each of you. Jesus promised that the Spirit will lead you in Truth, He will be your advocate, and He will give you peace.
In your journal today, write your thoughts about these questions:
What is the mark of a true follower of Jesus, according to John 13:35?
How is Jesus preparing your heart to be His home?
According to today's reading, how will the Spirit help you serve through Women's Encounter and throughout your life?
Pray today and ask for God's Spirit to continue to prepare you to serve at the upcoming Women's Encounter.
