Word to the Wise
Friday, January 2, 2015 -
[1 John 2:22-28 and John 1:19-28]Let what you heard from the beginning remain in you. If what you heard from the beginning remains in you, then you will remain in the Son and in the Father. And this is the promise that he made us: eternal life.
Although scripture scholars tell us that the "letters" of John are most likely to have been composed by disciples devoted to the traditions associated with the Beloved Disciple, these letters continue important "themes" from the Gospel of John. If you were able to read the Prologue to the gospel, the word "beginning" in today's first scripture should jump out at you. It carries with it meanings from the Book of Genesis as well as reflection on the divine and eternal relationship of Jesus to the Father. It is participation in that relationship that is offered in Jesus. That participation is expressed in the word "remain" that also appears in the gospel frequently.
In the flush and rush of a New Year, it may be difficult to take the time to reflect on such profound realities, but the effort is worth it. Perhaps we could include in our resolutions an intentional effort to "remain" with Jesus. This may take on various expressions according to individuals, but having the church and sacramental life can at least provide some structural element along with personal prayer. The Gospel of John tells us that believing in Jesus means that we begin to experience eternal life. Isn't that worth the effort? AMEN
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