From Above

John 8:21-30

It seems kind of harsh of Jesus to tell people that if they didn’t believe who he claimed to be they would die in their sins. But then you have to ask how the alternative, life, happens. In John 3 we learn that to have life beyond what will pass away with this world means you have to be born again, or, literally, from above (John 3:6-7). Life, life that cannot be taken away, comes from above, from a source other than this world we would otherwise tie ourselves to. That’s the basic sin, to refuse to accept the offer of greater life, true life, life that comes from a relationship with God that he establishes and grows as part of the new creation coming into being.

The validation of the source of this life, from above, would come when Jesus returned to the Father, through his death, resurrection and ascension. Ironically, the validation of his origin and ability to grant such life would come at the hands of those who refused the offer.

Jesus shows that the divine will is toward life. May the offer be cherished.

Prayer:
God, thank you that you chose life for me long before I chose to accept it. Let is show. Through Jesus. Amen.