“That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we looked upon and have touched with our hands, concerning the word of life…And we are writing these things to you so that our joy may be full.”

1 John 1:1,4

The Apostle John saw God’s Son firsthand. He spent many a day listening to Him preach and teach. He watched Him perform miracles. He sat with Him at the Last Supper, mourned after He was crucified, and witnessed His resurrection. He can testify to the fact of who Jesus is – God eternal. 

John wrote five books in the New Testament – the Gospel of John, three letters to the early church Christians, and the book of Revelation. John couldn’t stay silent. He had to tell the others what he had seen and heard. In verse 4 we get a little glimpse into his heart. He wrote down these words why? Because to do so brought him joy!

When I read this verse it made me think about what brings me joy and where I am searching to find fulfillment. Lately I have found myself too often looking for satisfaction in the things of this world. And then I come up empty. Not only empty, but frustrated. 

What DOES bring joy? For John, it was sharing the love of Christ—something that is ETERNAL.The things of this world seem so important in the here and now. But they are not. They are temporary. What matters is that others know the life-giving power of Christ. 

John’s words are full of light and hope. We as Christians experience the same light and hope. Are we as eager to share this good news with others? 

God, thank you for this reminder from John of what brings true fulfillment. There is so much joy in sharing your love with others. Give me opportunities to talk with others about what you are doing in my life. Help me to focus on what is lasting and eternal.