John 8:31-36 (NRSV)
Read John 8:31-36 on biblegateway.com
Verse 31Then Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, "If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; Verse 32and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free." Verse 33They answered him, "We are descendants of Abraham and have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean by saying, 'You will be made free'?" Verse 34Jesus answered them, "Very truly, I tell you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin. Verse 35The slave does not have a permanent place in the household; the son has a place there forever. Verse 36So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.
Devotion
“Jesus answered them, ‘Very truly, I tell you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not have a permanent place in the household; the son has a place there forever’” (John 8:34f). Wow! Oh no!
Even our sin-dimmed eyes perceive that we commit sin. Though we desire to remain forever in the household of God, we are slaves to sin, and Jesus’ words unambiguously declare us to being but only temporary residents.
Fortunately, God knows this. God knows us. God knows our situation. We are in bondage to sin and cannot free ourselves. The God of mercy, the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, does for us that which we cannot do for ourselves. Jesus will come again and take you to himself, so that where the Son is, there you may be also.
The Son indeed sets you free.
Prayer
We stand in awe of you, O God, Creator of all that is, seen and unseen. May we come to grasp the depth of your love for us, through Jesus Christ. Amen.