March 21, 2007

Life to Its Fullest

John 10:7-10

"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life ... to the full." John 10:10

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A faithful radio listener, Yekaterina, age 55, lives in the Ukraine. She became a Christian five years ago. Her son is an unbeliever and a drug addict. In Yekaterina's own words: "He doesn't value his life. He can see that he is perishing, yet he doesn't believe that there can be a different life with God."

Of course, this description of a sad spiritual and physical predicament applies not only to Yekaterina's son. Many people all over the world live with an empty heart, with no hope or sense of purpose. What can the gospel say to them?

In our reading for today Jesus talks about a radically different life. But he first warns us against the thief who steals, kills, and destroys--who is interested only in himself. Then Jesus tells us that he came to this earth for us. He gives up his own life in order to grant us the gift of life--life to its fullest!

This life is much richer and more amazing than anything this world can offer. Full life in Jesus is eternal, and yet it starts immediately. It's simple, yet rich. Life in Christ is so different because at its foundation is God's grace, love, and forgiveness.

How is your journey going today? Do you feel God's purpose in your daily actions? Thanks to Christ, we can now enjoy life in God's presence--life to its fullest.

Father, we praise you for the full life you have given us in Jesus Christ. Because of his death we can live. Help us to tell others about his wonderful gift of purposeful life. Amen.

About the author — Sergei Sosedkin

Rev. Sergei Sosedkin is the Russian-language ministry leader for ReFrame Ministries. He is a native of Moscow, Russia. As he oversees the Russian-language ministry, Rev. Sosedkin works from our office in Grand Rapids and in various locations in Russia.

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