Scripture
“He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.”
Reflection
From previous verses in 1 John 5, we know that the “life” in the today’s verse refers to eternal life. Is eternal life simply to live forever? In Mark’s gospel, we read about the rich young ruler who asked Jesus how to obtain eternal life. He was told to sell all that he has, give to the poor, and follow Jesus. “But the young man was sad at this word, and went away sorrwoful, for he had great possessions.” (Mark 10:22). What did the rich young man think eternal life would be like that made him unwilling to follow Jesus’ instructions? Apparently, it was not worth having compared to all his wealth.
I have heard people say: “I’ve lived a full life, I’m ready to go,” or, “Why would I want to live forever? I’ve suffered so much and it’s enough!” More often though, people are afraid of death, or rather, afraid of the unknown because no one can tell them what that experience is like. But as followers of Jesus, we know what happens after we die, for eternal life is to know God, in fellowship with Him forever (John 17:3). Nowadays, what I find more comforting than having eternal life is that I have fellowship with God here and now. “He who has the Son has life” — when you are stuck here alone for the holidays, when you do not know if you will find a job, when you don’t know what is next for you…Jesus is with you. Do not be like the rich young ruler, thinking that there’s too much to give up. The best of both worlds is promised to those who believe in the Son. Get ahold of Jesus with everything you’ve got, and he will make a difference in your life now.
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- Do you have an idea of what eternal life might look like before today? Is the idea of having eternal life worth “everything you’ve got”?
- How will you respond to God’s presence and provision for you?
Prayer
Take time to pray Psalm 96. Allow it to shape prayers of thanksgiving as you are reminded of who God is.
