“And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.” -1 John 4:16

The Greek word “menno” that Jesus uses to describe what it’s like to be in friendship with him means “to take up residence.” It reminds me of the cabin in Big Bear our family owned when I was growing up. I loved it. My dad and grandpa actually built this cabin with their bare hands. And my grandpa called it Camelot, even though it was an ordinary cabin, to be quite honest with you. He was always a very positive person.

We’d often go out into the woods behind this cabin and we’d get soaking wet and cold from playing in the snow. It would be below freezing, so when we’d come into the cabin, there would be a nice fire going. We’d peel off our wet socks, put our feet by the fire, lie back, and feel so cozy after being so cold.

You and I need to come out of the cold world and into the warm friendship of Jesus. He loves and accepts us, believes in us, forgives our sins, redeems us, and grants us his grace. We need to stay there, abide there, and live there forever.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, your abiding love is like a cozy fire in my heart. You keep me from the cold wind of loneliness and warm me with your friendship. Amen.

REFLECTION: How does Christ’s love warm your heart and shield you from loneliness?