The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

Jude 1:1-3, “Jude, a bond-servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to those who are the called, beloved in God the Father, and kept for Jesus Christ:

2 May mercy and peace and love be multiplied to you.

3 Beloved, while I was making every effort to write you about our common salvation, I felt the necessity to write to you appealing that you contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints.”

What kind of connections do you have? How do you rate yourself with regard to your relatives? Who is first in your life?

As you know, in New Testament times, letters always commenced with the signature of the writer. That way, you didn’t have to read the whole letter before you knew who wrote it. Jude identifies himself in four ways: first, he is a bond-servant of Jesus Christ. Second, he is the human brother of James, a disciple of our LORD Jesus. Third, he is one who is loved in and by God, the Father. And fourth, he is guarded (kept, tereo) by and for Jesus Christ. That is Jude’s introduction of himself and whom he loves and who they are that love him. That’s quite a lot to wrap your head around, isn’t it?

He then proceedes to pray a blessing on his readers, blessings consisting of mercy, peace, and love. Mercy (eleos) is that which works to eliminate hurt. Peace (eirene) is the replacement for worry and frustration that comes with ordinary life. And love (agape) is doing for others without expecting anything in return. Are you merciful? Do you bring peace to others? Do you love others without demanding that they love you in return? These are qualities that exist in all true Christians.

Jude demonstrates the reality of mercy, peace, and love when he notes that the LORD moved upon him to leave what he intnded to write and to urge them instead to contend (epagonizomai) or strive for the faith that believers before them had exhibited in their lives. Did you ever start to do something and just “felt” within yourself that you needed to do something else? Have you considered that it just might be the Holy Spirit moving you to change your activity or direction? Better do it! Remember that you too are a bond-servant of Jesus Christ –that is, if you have in faith committed your life to Him.

There’s so much greater reward available from the LORD than from anyone or anywhere. Let Him order your life. That’s what brings peace and contentment. I pray for you daily! Pray for me, too. I need to follow Jude’s advice myself –all the time!!

Heartily in Christ Jesus,

(Dado III)

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.

Springdale, Arkansas 72764

United States of America

“We never know that God is all we need

until He becomes all that we have.”