Blogging toward Sunday

For Sunday, May 13th, the Lectionary readings include I John 5:1-6 and John 15:9-17

This passage of the Gospel of John is a continuation of the story we read during worship last Sunday concerning Jesus, the True Vine. As a result, some key words are in this text as well; words like "abide" and "bear fruit." While there are similar themes, verses 9-17 focuses more on "love," a pattern that begins in verse 9: "As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love."  Then Jesus goes on to say, "This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you." Some form of the word "love" is used 9 times in these few short verses. Why might that be? Could it be that we need to hear the word repeated again and again because, as fallen human beings, we have such a difficult time putting this verb into action?

For your first reading, begin with verse 1 of John 15 and then read through verse 17. (This will provide a better perspective on the overall teaching). On this first reading, what jumped off the page for you? What word or words caught your attention? 

Read through verses 9-17 once more and consider the following as you prepare for worship on Sunday:

1. Jesus calls his disciples "friends." What does it mean to be a friend of Jesus?
2. What does it mean to be chosen by Jesus?
3. What are differences between a servant and a friend?
4. What should be the result of being loved by Jesus?
5. Where is "love in action" needed today?
6. How might you share the love of Jesus with someone this week?

May your week's journey bring you into God's house of prayer and worship once again.
Shalom,
Glenda