Our scripture this week is John 10:1-10.
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10
Jesus points out the most characteristic human failings in this verse – selfishness and violence. These are the first sins recorded in Genesis 3-4, when humans chose to do what they wanted instead of what God wanted for them. God gave us free will and we abused the privilege.
However, Jesus invites us to use our free will to choose returning to God now, loving Him and each other, putting His call on our lives first. As always, this is not forced upon us, it is an offer from our Creator. God wants us to worship Him out of thankfulness, not fear.
Jesus came to show us the way back to a full relationship with God. The way has always been open, but very rarely do we find it on our own. He promises us that when we come to Him we may have “life and have it to the full”.
Loving Lord, we have forgotten that we are made in Your image, that part of You lives in us. Help us to see the way that is prepared for us and know the joy of connection to You. Amen.
This is beautiful!