The reflection, “The Joy of Abiding in Christ: A Journey, Not a Burden,” delves into the relationship between Christians and Christ, likening it to a joyful journey rather than a gruelling task. Drawing on passages from the Apostle John, the reflection underscores our devotion to God and compliance with the commandments to express love towards God and God’s children. This obedience is not portrayed as an obligation but as a triumphant and motivated response to the love we receive from God.
The reflection underlines the idea of dwelling or ‘abiding’ in the love of Christ by bringing out the profound depth of intimacy it signifies – an intimacy that Jesus himself shares with God the Father. This abiding is achieved through obedience, which isn’t a burden but a natural outcome of residing in his love.
Embracing this concept leads to a deeper connection with God and the ability to bear enduring fruits in the spirit.
Drawing inspiration from Matthew 11:30, the text stresses that living in Christ brings comfort and ease, contrary to the worldly perception of burden. The concept of absolute freedom is accentuated in surrendering our desires to the loving will of Christ, which brings about total acceptance, limitless love, and empowerment by the Holy Spirit.
In summation, abiding in Christ forms the central theme of this sermon. Obedience to divine command is not portrayed as a duty but a path to a deeper relationship with God. This relationship brings forth fruits that magnify God’s glory and demonstrate Christ’s profound and reassuring transformative power.
Breaking Open 