Scripture: John 14:2
My Father’s house has room to spare. If that weren’t the case, would I have told you that I’m going to prepare a place for you?
Thought for the Day: Often shared in the context of a funeral, these words should be heard first from the perspective of those beginning to know real persecution for their faith. John’s Gospel was probably written around 88-93AD. Domitian was the Roman Emperor, and he demanded that people worshipped a statue of the Emperor. Followers of Jesus struggled with how best to respond. They knew he wasn’t a god, but to bend a knee before an image was idolatry. Of course, to not bow down could bring exclusion from the economic system of Rome, arrest or even the possibility of death. For Jesus followers, the words from John’s Gospel were more than hope in their old age. These words were a source of courage – providing them the Good News of a God who had already made a space for them in the household of God. Appreciation and true gratitude for God’s graciousness creates within us the ability to be courageous even in the face of great risk and danger. How has God’s promise to you inspired a willingness to stretch your faith beyond what was previously comfortable?
Prayer: Owner of the Eternal Household, I give you thanks for your generous welcome and your gracious hospitality that prepares a space for me. With that beautiful image in my mind, I look for opportunities to live my life beyond my definition of comfort. I ask for your encouragement in the name of Jesus, the one who risked everything while trusting in you. Amen.
Another Sunday of…
One Week From Advent
