August 28, 2019 – John 15:7-9

If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. John 15:7-8.

As a child, I watched my mother’s fingers flying on the edge of a garment, hemming with the needle and thread.  Tiny stitches held the edges from being frayed. 

Is this why a joyous hug from a friend means so much? And then I found these verses.  

You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me.  Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high; I cannot attain it.  Psalm 139:5-6.  I remember the joy of feeling safe when I was within the confines of the white picket fence as a child.  Finding God’s Love by abiding, living in His Love, brings the assurance of a covering of His love.

Keeping the commandments of Jesus brings us His Joy, even as He keeps His Father’s commandments.  Our joy comes from the Lord, for He is our strength in all things. And we praise Him, as even His Creation does.

Let the sea roar, and all that fills it; let the field exult, and everything in it!  Then shall the trees of the forest sing for joy before the Lord, for He comes to judge the earth.  Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His steadfast love endures forever!   I Chronicles 16:32-34.

If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.  John 15:10-11.