June 19, 2018 – John 15:19-11

When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father’s commandments and remain in his love.  I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow! John 15:10-11.

What is so difficult about obedience? How often are sinners called stiff-necked in the Bible! Stubbornness is wanting my way, and not be told what to do. Do you remember a time when you wanted to do things your own way?  

Jesus obeyed His Father to come to earth and be a sacrifice for our sins.  What if He decided not to come? We would not have the Holy Spirit living within us.  We would not know the beautiful, amazing love of Jesus or have the promise of Eternal Life with God.

One day, as a girl, I came home from school and found a note, “Please, wash the dishes in the sink.”  I told myself I would later. When Mother returned and saw the dishes unwashed,  I thought I would be punished.  I watched Mother unfold the tea towel slowly. She uncovered a chocolate Hershey bar. I was sorry I had not obeyed!

Jesus has given us a commandment – Love each other in the same way I have loved you! He died for us, He forgives us, He waits for us to love Him.  How long do we have to obey? We don’t know, but Jesus does. He knows when we will breathe our last breath on earth.

Love doesn’t stand alone, Galatians 5:22-23 tells us the Holy Spirit in us gifts us. But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,  gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!

This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you. John 15:12.