Book Reflection: Abide Ch. 5
“He chooses us for kingdom purposes, and he has plans for us, even though we will fail him. God is faithful in his love, even when we lose our way.”
Heather Khym
Chapter 5: The Personality of Jesus
Do you ever notice the subtle things people do that make them unique and know that it is them? Can you identify the uniqueness of your loved ones, understand their tendencies, and know their heart and movements so well that you feel you understand them deeply without them having to speak? When we know people well, we learn their tendencies, their pet peeves, the things they really love and enjoy, and the meaning behind their expressions. It is like knowing a unique language. This is the kind of relationship we are invited to have with God.
In Abide, Heather Khym invites us to see and know Jesus for who He is through the stories in scripture. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to meet Jesus in person? It is more than just knowing information about Him; it's about having a deep relationship with Him. It is important for us to pray the rosary, do devotionals, read Scripture and spiritual books, and go to Mass. But a deep relationship with God is the greater reason for doing these practices. This theme is echoed in many books I've read: being Catholic is not about checking boxes for doing Catholic things, but about having intimacy and union with God.
If we want a full and happy life, we need to be closely united with Jesus, who is The Way to eternal happiness.
When we look at Scripture, there are so many instances where He showed us who He is and how He is. He meets people in the messiest, darkest, and ugliest places within us and loves us there. He must have been so kind, attentive to the needs of others, and enjoyed a good laugh. Jesus knew how to weep with others during very sad times. He has experienced both joy and suffering and understands every single human experience. Jesus is a real person who wants to be in a relationship with us.
As we grow deeper in love with Jesus, we will be able to discern the different voices we hear and recognize His calling for our lives. We will be able to differentiate between the true God and the false images we have formed from those in our lives who have hurt us. God wants to show us the truth of who He is: true, good, and beautiful. We will begin to see Him not just as a distant figure, but as a close friend who knows us intimately and loves us unconditionally. This love transforms us, bringing clarity and purpose, and helps us through life. By understanding God’s true nature, we learn to trust Him more fully and follow His guidance.
In the end, knowing Jesus deeply changes how we are and how we respond to others. It enables us to see Him in the ordinary, recognize the beauty in our suffering, and find peace in any situation. Let us allow His love to transform our hearts and lead us to a life of true happiness and fulfillment.
ponder
Open your Bible to the Gospel readings. What do the scriptures reveal to you about the personality and character of Jesus?
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