A Full Life?

I’m working ahead on a whole-life stewardship series for Fall worship at my current congregation. One of the texts I’m preaching on is also one of the most misunderstood:  “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” (John 10:10b)
 
When is my life full? When I’m thoroughly entertained? When I’m financially secure? When I’m retired? When I’m happy in all of my relationships? When I’m achieving all of my goals? When I’m debt-free? When I have everything I want? Here’s a look at life to the full:
 

• Life to the full is not when my life is free of storms and challenges; life to the full is when Jesus is in the boat with me during the storms
• Life to the full is not “someday” in the future when I retire or reach financial security or achieve certain goals, but it’s “this day” right now, as Jesus is with me, leading, guiding, walking with me through the valley of the shadow of death, even carrying me at times
• Life to the full is not conflict-free or sickness-free or stress-free hassle-free, it’s facing all of these things knowing that Jesus not only knows what I’m going through, but is with me, blessing me with everything I need.

 
When will I have life to the full? I have it now, because by grace through faith Jesus is with me. You have life to the full now because Jesus is with you.
 
Don’t miss this. Life to the full isn’t “someday, later.” You have life to the full, now, with Jesus.
 
Grateful with you in Christ,
 
Pastor Stephen Luchterhand

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