Reflection:  We live in a time when hope seems in short supply and we are overwhelmed with many challenges. In these opening words of his first letter, the Apostle John lays out an awe-inspiring vision. John had a unique experience. He was there and he saw, and he touched. He was able to experience Jesus, ‘the Word of life’, first-hand.

But it didn’t stop there. Those who came after, even you and I, can also have that same relationship with the Word of life. We too can know and touch and see with the eyes of faith.

Jesus promised new life, and what he calls eternal life. By this he means the age to come which will be eternal. The great news is that this starts today and goes on into eternity. How else do we explain the amazing reality that so many still believe? People from every tribe and tongue.

We can be incredibly thankful that we too have fellowship with the Father and the Son, and that we have entered into this age to come, which we are seeking to live out today. At present there are many struggles and much pain and suffering. We live in the power and strength of the Holy Spirit, and we look forward to the day when we too shall be with him face to face for all eternity in his new heaven and new earth.

Prayer:  Almighty God and Heavenly Father, thank you for the amazing vision you have for the world, and for me. Thank you for the gift of eternal life which starts today and goes on forever. Help me to play my part to help others to enter into your kingdom and to make our world a better place. Amen.