1 John 1:1 ESV
That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we looked upon and have touched with our hands, concerning the word of life-

This is one of the few books in the New Testament that does not contain a salutation with the Author’s name. These letters are personal, so personal in fact, that the author knew the recipients very well, well enough to refer to them as his dear children. Looking at how we communicate even today, it makes sense that he would not have said who it was from because they KNEW who it was from. Such a personal note would not have needed a greeting. Knowing this we need to read this from that perspective of love and importance. Also, know John was super old. Most likely in his 80s when he wrote this. This is significant in that he never gave up. Ever.

In the opening of his letter, John is keeping the perspective solely on Jesus. He is reminding them that Jesus is the gospel. From the beginning. He heard, touched, gazed upon Jesus with his own eyes. The word of life is Jesus and John is being clear that he was an eyewitness to it all.

Jesus has always been. He was here in the flesh fully and wholly. He came that he might give us the words of eternal life.

I can only imagine what it must have been like for John, being one of the main guys in Jesus’ gang to be the last living apostle and having such vivid memories of Jesus. I wonder at his deep desire to be with Jesus again. What a glorious homecoming that must have been.

All that aside, I must remember that these men NEVER faltered. People do not live for a lie and they certainly do not die for a lie. They were strong til the end. Like Thomas who doubted, we never even get to see Him in this life yet we have faith. We are being transformed from one degree to another.

2 Corinthians 3:18 ESV
[18] And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord,are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.

What an honor it is to be a part of something bigger; something way beyond my scope. Thank you Lord for choosing me. Thank you for giving me your Holy Spirit to help me and guide me. Thank you for the example of these men who stayed strong. Who never gave up. Who fought hard. Who loved you with every ounce of their being until their dying breath. May I be bold and courageous. Please, I ask for three things: more of your Holy Spirit to guide me, more faith to give me courage, and more wisdom to do Your will and not my own.