“I am…” the book of John
In preparation for this special weekend where we remember the greatest gift God could give us and the greatest miracle on Sunday morning, here’s something I found the other day and it fits right in with tonight’s Family Worship concert. I find so much clarity regarding Jesus when I look at what He actually said about Himself. Read and be blessed:
The gospel of John has seven “I Am” statements.
- When I am spiritually hungry and thirsty—Christ spiritually sustains me as the Bread of Life: Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty. (John 6:35)
- When I am discouraged and worried—I gain spiritual wisdom and understanding through Christ as the Light of the World: When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12)
- When I am burdened and self-righteous—I have unlimited access and freedom through Christ as the Gate: “I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out and find pasture.” (John 10:9)
- When I feel guilty and unforgiven—Christ’s death on the cross provides forgiveness of sin as my Good Shepherd: “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (John 10:11)
- When I feel purposeless—Christ’s resurrection provides eternal life beginning now as the Resurrection and the Life: Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die.” (John 11:25-26)
- When I feel deceived—Christ is the only one who can provide the Way, the Truth, and the Life: Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6)
- When I feel exhausted or too achievement-oriented—Christ as the Vine provides the power to serve Him: “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)
Have a great day remembering the great “I am,”
Pastor Rich
Quote for the day: “I will never leave you or forsake you.” God
PS Union College Gospel Choir practice 3:30pm CVC Heartland Hall C. All are welcome if you like to sing!!
PPS Family Worship- Easter Cantata: You are invited to hear a presentation of Theodore Dubois’ “Seven Last Words of Christ” by CVC choir and UC Fine Arts’ music groups and orchestra on Friday evening, April 19 in the CVC sanctuary. Save the date and invite a friend! See you in the church at 8:00pm
PPPS Afterglo- by Angenita and her Humanities’ friends right after the concert.