Jude is a small package in our "big book," a bit of beauty which contains a very real and important gift. In verses 20 and 21 it says, "Dear friends, carefully build yourselves up in this most holy faith by praying in the Holy Spirit, staying right at the center of God's love, keeping arms open and outstretched, ready for the mercy of our Master, Jesus Christ. This is the unending life, the real life!" Wow!
I read those words now, and I realize their wealth, a very real and and important gift to the world. But, I don't remember those words when I feel attacked. Now, what kind of nut thinks any kind of criticism is an attack? My kind, I'm afraid. But, taking it one step at a time, I may just find myself one day on the winning side of this battle.
These verses tell us to build ourselves up in the Lord through His presence. Pray to and with the Holy Spirit, with the Spirit's language if you have it. Whether we speak in English or in Martian, God understands a Oneness with the Spirit.
Stay in the center of God's love. Oh, I get dangerous outside of God's love, because the old devil knows my weaknesses and pushes and pushes those buttons! And when I least expect it! Old tricky Nicky, he's always alert to my old stuff. So, how can we know that we're in the center of God's love? Well, when I sense joy, honesty and fruitfulness, and yes, even purity, I know God is very present. Then, too, I want to stretch out my arms toward others and give them the mercy that I know only Jesus can give.
Life is so real and unending when we claim the things of God! And God, may it be so in my life. Signed, jo
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