JOHN 17:20-24 – I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me. Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory that you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world.”

THEME OF THE DAY:  GREATLY LOVED.  If after reading today’s scripture, the words from the Lord Jesus in His High Priestly prayer, you are tempted to lay aside the device you are reading today’s nugget on, and jump around the room singing praises to the Lord, please do so.  This sacred portion of scripture shows us the heart of God the Father and God the Son unmatched in any other.  Spend time being overwhelmed with what is revealed.

Jesus says these most astounding and heart-soaring words concerning the love God has for us, His purchased people by His sacrificial life, death, and conquering resurrection – I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me (John 17:23).  Our Lord informs us that the love God, His Father, has for Him is the same love God, His Father, has for us!  Yes. It is true!  Oh, so greatly loved we are and when we know, believe, and experience how greatly loved we are, we respond by seeking to greatly love God. And how does God the Father love His Son and us?  We will never be able to grasp it for all eternity, but here are two qualities found in this love our Heavenly Father displays to His Son and us.

First, God the Father loves God the Son, and us, His adopted children, with an infinite love.  What does this mean?  Without limits.  No bounds. Toward the Son, this is a love of no restrictions for the Son is One in essence and perfection with the Father.  For us, though, who still sin against such a God, His infinite love knows no bounds in forgiving and restoring us.  Think about it. No limits or bounds in forgiveness!!!!  Indeed, we are greatly loved!

Next, God the Father loves God the Son and us, His adopted children with an eternal love.  That means without end. Forever and forever and forever we will be loved by the Father as He loves the Son.  Never wavering, always steadfast and does not fluctuate based on our performance!  Indeed, we are greatly loved!

So, did you jump around the room singing praises for such love yet?  If not, do so now for we are greatly loved!

PRAYER: “Father, words cannot express my praise for such a great love You have for me.”

QUOTE: “When we know, believe, and experience how greatly loved we are, we then greatly love.”

In the affection of Christ Jesus,

Pastor Jim