Daily Devotions
Today’s Reading: John 21:15-25 & Psalm 134
Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. John 21:20
Jesus called John a “son of thunder.” John had suggested a Samaritan village be destroyed because of its lack of hospitality (Luke 9:51-55), sought a greater reward for following Jesus (Matthew 20:20-28), and learned that it would be better to drown in the sea with a millstone necklace than to cause difficulties for others within the Kingdom of God (Mark 9:38-42).
So, what happened to change this “son of thunder” into “the disciple whom Jesus loved?” The reality of God’s love. The former “son of thunder” now tells about a God who so loved the entire world that He gave His one and only Son (John 3:16). The ex-status-seeker writes, “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him” (1 John 2:15). The once religious elitist now declares, “Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God” (1 John 4:2).
For the love of God in Christ Jesus to have accomplished what it did, John obviously opened himself to following the Lord. And you? What does He promise as a result of your Baptism? What does He say to you every time you open His Word? What does He offer you at His Holy Supper? And why does He hear and answer your prayers and daily provide you with strength, guidance, and direction?
Indeed, it’s because you, too, have experienced the reality of God’s love. His resurrection made it certain on that first Easter Day. Brought from sin to righteousness through Christ, you are a disciple whom Jesus loves!
Prayer
Lord Jesus, keep us ever in Your love so that our discipleship may be a blessing to ourselves and others, to the glory of God, the Father, who, with the Holy Spirit, You live and reign for all eternity. Amen.
Response
How will His love shine through your thoughts, words, and actions this Easter Day and beyond?