Monday, 08 September 2008 00:00  |  Written by Dave Mockett [a] and posted in John

James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon's partners. Luke 5:10

Family and friends were important to John. In the life story of Jesus, he's only mentioned once without James or Peter, and even then he talks about how “we saw…” (Luke 9:49).

Jesus called John to follow him — to be a disciple — but John also became one of Jesus' closest friends on earth.

Tuesday, 09 September 2008 00:00  |  Written by Dave Mockett [a] and posted in John

Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to him. "Teacher," they said, "we want you to do for us whatever we ask." Mark 10:35

The two brothers, James and John, could often seem quite arrogant and this statement seems an abuse of their friendship with Jesus. But think about the way you pray. Is there any difference?

Jesus was very kind and asked them what they wanted. Do you ever stop to think what God is asking of you?

Wednesday, 10 September 2008 00:00  |  Written by Dave Mockett [a] and posted in John

Jesus ... took Peter, John and James with him and went up onto a mountain to pray. Luke 9:28

Verses like this one remind us about the importance of praying with friends. Faith is not just a private thing. In fact Jesus promises to turn up whenever two or more gather together in his name (Matt 18:20)… that’s something you want to be part of! So, if you’re not already, why not start praying regularly with your friends?

Thursday, 11 September 2008 00:00  |  Written by Dave Mockett [a] and posted in John

Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. John 21:20

When John wrote his letters later in life, he became characterised by his reflections on God's love. He knew what it was to be loved by Jesus and found his identity and his attitude to others completely changed by knowing that he was loved by a man who he'd seen die for him.

I don't know what you think of yourself or the people in your life, but choose today to accept the truth that God loves you; and them.

Friday, 12 September 2008 00:00  |  Written by Dave Mockett [a] and posted in John

(This was the disciple who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, "Lord, who is going to betray you?") John 21:20

Some of us like to face life head on and shout, "Do your worst!" Others hide in a corner and hope it all goes away. When faced with one of the most gut wrenching moments of his life (the knowledge that Jesus was going to be betrayed by one of his close friends), John chose to lean on Jesus. What about you?

Saturday, 13 September 2008 00:00  |  Written by Dave Mockett [a] and posted in John

James, Peter and John, those reputed to be pillars, gave me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship when they recognized the grace given to me. Galatians 2:9

Sometimes arrogant, sometimes angry, always with his brother and friend, John was one of Jesus' closest mates. And being with Jesus rubbed off! When the church was in its early years, those who had been closest to Jesus became its leaders; people who were trusted and respected by the other Christians.

People notice when we spend time with Jesus. He creates changes in us beyond our imagination.

Sunday, 14 September 2008 00:00  |  Written by Dave Mockett [a] and posted in John

When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: “Do not be afraid…” Revelation 1:17

If anyone had a right to act in a familiar manner around Jesus it was John and yet in his vision John falls at Jesus’ feet as if dead. Nothing could have prepared John for seeing Jesus in his glory – he was completely overwhelmed. But notice Jesus’ response… Jesus touches John (perhaps like he had on earth) and tells him he need not be afraid…