24. March 2026
Love and Joy
1/23/2026
I was reading John 15 this morning, and this verse stood out. John 15: 10-11 If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.”
I often have thought about my experience with other Christians. I’ve seen some amazing love from some, I mean, sacrificial love of Christ. There was a time when I was alone after separating from an abusive situation, and a family just gave us a car. They know how much we needed it, and there was the love of Christ. I’ve also experienced extreme judgment from Christians; I was divorced, therefore, you are not allowed to participate in the worship ministry. I’ve seen the joy of the Lord on some faces and some faces that live in a perpetual scowl.
Now I can never judge these people. God tells us not to judge. They may be facing serious things in their lives, but I believe that those who abide in Christ have JOY!
Now this joy isn’t from God giving us everything we ask for. In fact, that is not his priority. This joy comes from the overwhelming love of God. Knowing He cares for us and that He sent His Son to die for us. That he will provide peace and comfort through all of life. That fills us with Joy!
My picture of Jesus is one of a huge smile and love for those he was discipling. I think there was laughter.
Further in the chapter, John tells us in John 15:12, “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” So to keep the Father’s command, we are to love one another, care for each other, and God will fill us with Joy!
I think that manifests through tangible help for people, like the car I was given. Or groceries to a family in need, a meal for those who are sick. Or helping the marginalized, those who are abused, and those who are hidden in the corner.
Look around today, how can you show the love of Christ and make sure you show it with the Joy that God fills you with.