Abundant life is a true path to righteousness and eternal peace with God the Father.

Text: John 10:1-10

In our text, Jesus says, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly."

Jesus was informing the people of Israel that the real Messiah would provide peace with God, salvation, and eternal life. False Messiahs and the false religious leaders of Jesus' day were deceiving the people—fleecing the sheep rather than guarding, nurturing, and guiding them in the truth of God. In verse 11 Jesus tells the people He is the Messiah—the Good Shepherd promised long before by the prophet Ezekiel (see Ezekiel 34)!

The promise of abundant life is as relevant for us today as it was in Jesus' time. We look to materialism and comfort to find life, but it never fulfills us. Every day we hear thieves and robbers tell us lies. But Jesus' true sheep listen for His voice and follow Him. New Morning Mercies reminded me today that the best gift of grace is God Himself. We are not alone. We have a Shepherd who loves us and calls us by name!

It's all about Jesus!
John