Our scripture this morning is John 5:24-25.
“I tell you the truth, those who listen to my message and believe in God who sent me have eternal life. They will never be condemned for their sins, but they have already passed from death into life. And I assure you that the time is coming, indeed it’s here now, when the dead will hear my voice—the voice of the Son of God. And those who listen will live.”
In this passage from the Gospel of John Jesus speaks to us all directly. While He gave us parables and examples in His earlier teachings, His words now are very specific: “those who listen to my message and believe in God who sent me have eternal life.” There are only two options here, eternal life or eternal separation.
God has spoken to us through scripture and prophets. He sent Jesus to personify His love and His message for us. It is essential that all His children receive the Good News, but more than that, accept it. The term Jesus uses is “listen”.
When He says “listen” it means much more than hearing or reading the words. It means taking that message and making it part of us, part of our everyday activity. God wants to be connected to us in everything we do, but is up to each of us to invite Him into our lives.
Heavenly Father, we are ashamed of our mistakes but amazed by Your love. Forgive us and send us that all Your children may truly listen to Your word and receive Your love. Amen.
