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October 18

Resting on Jesus

There was leaning on Jesus' bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved. — John 13:23

We are not told the name of this disciple, but we know him by his place and posture. What were the traits in John’s character which made him the beloved disciple? One was his humility; another was his love. Artists always paint his face in features of gentleness and affectionateness. Another of his winning traits was his trust. He never seems to have doubted.

When was it that he reclined on Jesus’ bosom? It was in a time of great darkness. The Master was about to go away, and all the hopes of the disciples were being destroyed. But where was John in that darkness? Sorrow, instead of driving us into despair, should drive us nearer to Christ — to His Bosom.

He’s better to us than many mothers are,
And children cannot wander beyond reach
Of the sweep of his white garment.
Touch and hold,
And if you weep still, weep
Where John was laid
While Jesus loved him.

Where was it that John learned? on Jesus’ breast. Not merely on His arm, the place of strength; nor upon His shoulder, the place of upholding; but on His bosom, which is the place of love and tenderness. It is a great thing to know that the divine omnipotence is underneath us in all our weakness; but mere omnipotence is cold. How much better is it when omnipotence has the heart of love within it.

But what did John do? He leaned. He rested his weight on the omnipotent love of his Lord. Christ wants all His friends to lean upon Him. He wants to carry our burdens for us — He wants us to lay upon Him our sins and all our cares; but more than this, — ourselves. He wants to bear us as well as our loads.


Daily Word of God - October 18

Public domain content taken from Come Ye Apart by J.R. Miller.


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