Gone a Long Time, Still Welcome?

Mark: I love you, and I've felt this too: it's been so long that walking back in feels awkward. I wondered if Jesus would even want me after all these years.

Sarah: Some people feel that knot in the stomach. Listen to what Jesus says in John 6:37, and notice who he's saying it to.

Scripture: All those whom the Father gives me will come to me. He who comes to me I will in no way throw out.

Mark: So who was he actually talking to?

Sarah: People who'd asked him, 'always give us this bread.' He told them he's the bread of life, and he was honest that some who'd seen him still didn't believe.

Mark: He knew people doubted, and he still said that. I used to wonder if being gone for years counted as a pretty big strike against me.

Sarah: Look at the next lines. He says he came to do his Father's will, and that will is that he loses nothing of what he's been given.

Mark: I used to think it was about whether I could find my way back on my own steam.

Sarah: But it seems to put the weight on what the Father gives, and it doesn't mention a résumé. And that line doesn't mention a timer anywhere.

Mark: I worried it would be awkward, too, and that I'd have to explain every single year I missed.

Sarah: The verse doesn't mention explaining first. It simply speaks of the one who comes to him.

Sarah: Jesus made a promise about the one who comes to him, and John 6:37 names no time away. Tonight, try telling God one honest sentence. And if you'd like company on this road, you're welcome to follow along here.