"The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." John 10:10
In today's text we see the contrast between the thief and the Lifegiver.
Jesus talks about the thief – Satan – whose purpose is to steal peace and happiness from the people of earth, to spread death across the planet and to leave destruction in his wake. Jesus calls him a "murderer from the beginning" and "the father of lies". See John 8:44
Today's verse tells us about a battle going on. It's a war being fought between the forces of darkness and the forces of light. This war started in heaven (see Revelation 12:7-9) and the battle continues. It's the battle for our minds. It's the same battle that Jesus fought in the wilderness, when Satan came to tempt Him. He overcame the tempter by quoting from the Word of God, because He knew the scriptures and put his trust in His heavenly Father.
Jesus tells us the purpose of His mission to Earth: to bring life – He is the Lifegiver. In contrast to the thief who takes away, Jesus gives. In contrast to the killer, Jesus brings life. In contrast to the destroyer, Jesus builds up, He re-builds the broken.
The life Jesus brings is a quality of life – He calls this "abundant life" - life for all; not merely to exist, but to experience real living - new life in Christ!
How do I get this life? It's a gift. Jesus offers it to us - "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28)
"And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely." (Revelation 22:17)
May you be strengthened this day in your resolve to possess the abundant life Jesus gives.
