The disciple John repeatedly referred to himself as the disciple who Jesus loved. This is the same Gospel writer who wrote that the world could not contain all the books needed to write all that Jesus said and did. Yet, John did not spare the words to let us all know he was the “disciple whom Jesus loved.” (John 13:23)
I have to admit that there was a time when my response to this was, “John, who do you think you are?” Did he really think he was so special, that he felt it necessary to remind us all what he believed about himself?
And then I began to realize that this was an amazing identity statement. John got a glimpse of his identity in Christ. He related to Jesus as being one who was loved. It was why John, during his last meal with Jesus, could lean against the breast of Jesus. (John 13:25)
Can you imagine John’s sense of intimacy, vulnerability, and absolute confidence in the love that Jesus had for him? Can you imagine that for yourself? I have had a lifelong struggle to believe I am the one who Jesus loves.
But, leaning on His breast and hearing His heartbeat for me, I am coming to believe in who I am in Christ, and who he is in me.
~ Susan Kewin
Christ Fellowship