March 25, 2004	Read John 15: 9-15
As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love.  If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love.  I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete.
JESUS LOVES ME She was 3-1/2 years old and her 7-year-old brother had been very sick.  Now Mommy was telling her something she didn’t quite understand.  Her brother was going to heaven to be with Jesus, because when he was with Jesus he wouldn’t be sick any more.  Her brother was all dressed up in the pretty blue sweater he wore to Sunday School.  She could tell him goodbye, but he could not answer her. For several days, the little girl seemed bewildered.  Then came the beautiful spring evening when she eagerly took Mommy into the back yard.  “Look, Mommy!  Look at the stars!  That’s where Jimmy is with Jesus!”  She understood!  She had heard the Good News in Sunday School.  Together with Mommy she sang Jesus Loves Me. The love God gave to the world through the gift of his Son, Jesus, was in this child’s heart.  Knowing that love, both my daughter and I could sing with joy –even through the tears.  My daughter is now a grown woman with children of her own and a strong and active faith in God. Jesus taught us of God’s love so that even at sad times we could find hope and joy.  “I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and so that your joy may be complete.” Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for the gift of your Son Jesus.  May we be ever mindful of the great love you shared through this gift – the gift of sins forgiven.  Help us to keep your commandments that we may abide in your love.  MARJORIE BENDER

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