Weston Park Baptist Church

John (the Evangelist) uses the two images of 'master/disciple' and "parent/child" to describe a believer's relationship with God. First, we are invited to follow Jesus as both our Lord and the Leader of our lives. Secondly, we are graciously determined to be children of our Heavenly Father. Both images explore the relationship of intimacy that we share with our loving God in Christ. As a result we are encouraged to follow Jesus with zeal as we enjoy the gift of 'eternal life' now and into our eternal future.

In the heady days of the Roman Empire John cautions the church of Christ to not become overly enamoured with the glory of Rome. As a civilization it was no doubt impressive but the seeds of descent were already taking root. In light of this reality John encourages believers to see what is passing and what abides forever. The question for John's church (and for us!) is can we have "in-sight" into our cultural mors and pursue what is essential and of true value.

The First Epistle of John begins with the famous statement that God is light and in Him there is no darkness at all (v5). John the Evangelist also affirms that Jesus is the light of the world (John 8:12). In both cases light communicates illumination and guidance for the way we live our lives. The Father and the Son join together to provide all the light we need to enjoy a meaningful and empowering life both now and forevermore.

Psalm 139 is a treasured Psalm of the church of Christ. It reminds us that our 'all-seeing' and 'all-knowing' God is present with us in every circumstance of life. Nothing lies beyond the care and touch of our loving God. It is for this reason we can trust Him as we pass through both the blessed and challenging epochs of life's journey.

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The psalmist calls us to give thanks to God for his enduring, compassionate love. He encourages us to be mindful of Gods loving presence in our day to day. We are not to grow absent-minded or become forgetful of what is most essential. Rather, we are to remain full of God always praising him for his faithful care.