The disciple Jesus loves.

“Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto Peter, It is the Lord.” John 21:7

Do you ever wonder how the disciples must’ve felt when John called himself the disciple whom Jesus loved? It was John who was found resting on His chest. It was John who received the honor of caring for Mary before Jesus took his last breath on the cross. And it was John who Jesus said would not be martyred. He would die on the Island of Patmos after receiving the Revelation of Jesus Christ. Did Jesus love John more than the others? Was John His favorite of the disciples?

Sometimes, we look at other Christians and see how God blesses and favors them. We can think to ourselves; God must love them more than He loves me. The truth is that God loves each one of us equally. However, each one of us aren’t enjoying Jesus the same. God gives an equal amount of love to all of us, but we all aren’t receiving a full measure of that love, and our lives reflect it. I compare it to the sun. It shines brightly, emanating its rays, yet everyone isn’t enjoying it. Everyone doesn’t kick off their shoes and lay in the sun, basking in its warmth.

God loves you just as much as He loves me or anyone else. He loves you with the same intensity and passion. But are you allowing yourself to bask in His love? I receive His love in full measure, and my life reflects that decision. Even when I feel like the complete opposite of a daughter of God, I receive a full measure of His love for me. I would’ve been like John, on His chest, enjoying His love and His presence. Are you the disciple Jesus loves? Your life will reflect your decision to receive His love in full measure.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for speaking to my heart. I love you, and I thank you for loving me. Right now, I receive your love in full measure by faith, and I pray my life reflects that decision in Jesus’ name.

(Scripture references: John 19:26-27; John 21:21-23; Revelation 1:9-11)