Woman to Woman: Our Joy Made Full

“Jesus *said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life;
no one comes to the Father but through Me.”
(John 14:6, NASB)

The verse has at opened for several days now. These are the words Jesus spoke to Thomas in response to his questions.

Jesus does not offer a plethora of ways by which to gain access to the Father. Jesus knows He is the only way, the only truth, and the only way to eternal life. There are no other options.

There are choices to be made every day, all day long. Some we may not even be aware we are making. Others are intentional and conscious ones.

In the book of Joshua, we find that Joshua gather all the tribes of Israel to have a talk. He reviews, or reminds them, of their history with God. He goes over all God has done for them, and all they have been delivered from.

Then Joshua places the choice before them:

“If it is disagreeable in your sight to serve the Lord,
choose for yourselves today whom you will serve:
whether the gods which your fathers served which were beyond the River,
or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living;
but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
(Joshua 24:14-15, NASB)

The people had been swaying back and forth between God and idols. The time had come for them to make the choice; and their choice would impact every day which would follow.

As the words of both Jesus and Joshua collide, a few things come into focus.

When we choose Jesus, we also choose belonging to the family of God, fulfilling our purpose, and joy, yes joy.

Jesus also spoke these words:

“These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you,
and that your joy may be made full.”
(John 15:11, NASB)

“Until now you have asked for nothing in My name;
ask and you will receive,
so that your joy may be made full.”
(John 16:24, NASB)

Reflection:
How are these words spoken by both Joshua and Jesus speaking to you today? How does Jesus fill your life with joy?

Photo by Patrick Langwallner on Unsplash