28 APR 2024 · "This is Eternal Life"
Text: John 17:3
In John 17:3, Jesus defines eternal life in a way that might surprise us. He says, "This is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent." According to Jesus, eternal life is not just about living forever; it's about knowing God.
Eternal life is not just a quantity of years, but a quality of relationship. It's not just about existing forever, but about living in intimate connection with our Creator. Jesus says that knowing God and knowing himself is the very essence of eternal life.
But what does it mean to know God? It means to experience His love, His grace, and His presence in our lives. It means to trust in His goodness, His wisdom, and His power. It means to seek Him with all our hearts, to listen for His voice, and to follow His guidance.
As we walk with God, we begin to see the world through His eyes. We see the beauty of creation, the value of every human life, and the hope of redemption. We see the depth of our own sin and the breadth of His mercy. We see the temporary nature of this life and the eternal nature of the next.
And as we know God, we begin to experience eternal life. We taste the joy of heaven, the peace of His presence, and the freedom of forgiveness. We find purpose in our lives, meaning in our struggles, and hope in our darkness.
So let us seek to know God, to love Him with all our hearts, and to live in His presence. Let us embrace eternal life, not just as a future destination, but as a present reality. For in knowing God, we find the very essence of eternal life.
May the Lord help us to seek Him earnestly to know Him better in Christ name, Amen.