“On the last day…of the feast (Feast of Tabernacles Leviticus 23:33-44), Jesus stood and cried out, saying, ‘If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink (Isaiah 55:1-5). He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’” (John 7:37-38)
“Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.” (John 8:36)
In both circumstances, Jesus is speaking to His Jewish brethren, those whom he sought with passion to believe that He was (and is) their chosen Messiah (Luke 13:34-35). His message carries from then until now; for all who will receive Him (John 1:12-13).
I was talking with a friend the other day, and we spoke of the following, both as it relates to non-believers, but also how it happens within the believing community. What does one do when it seems that people call basically only when they need something? Or when a friendly word or smile is met with indifference, or worse, with disdain? Or when one gives (and gives), but in terms of reciprocation, there is only a dry desert, whether that be in lack of return word or deed?
The above scenarios surely imply at least a sad shortage of courtesy. Even the Messiah Himself suggested that there are certain “rules of etiquette” when interacting with one another. When visiting Simon the Pharisee in his home, and in response to an event that occurred there that did show great courtesy and love (Luke 7:37-38), Jesus counseled the prominent religious leader about how he should have treated Jesus (Luke 7:44-46). But “should have” and reality do not always correspond. When this happens, when expectations of a loving response are not met, it can be painful. How can one avoid this hurt? Or perhaps a better, and much “higher,” question is, can one actually give love with no expectations?
“…He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’”
If I may borrow an analogy from a brilliant book by Larry Crabb, within a believer there is a “Lower Room” where the dying old creature still dwells (Romans 7:18-19) and an “Upper Room” that has been opened up, aired out, and indwelt by the Holy Spirit (The Safest Place on Earth, pp. 59-71, see bottom p. 64). This Spirit of Jesus (Galatians 4:6) is Perfect Love, and is the very living water that is meant to be both an endless supply to the person in whom He dwells (John 4:14), and to those surrounding him or her. It is the hope of the individual (and the desire of the Spirit for him/her – Galatians 5:16-17) to begin spending more and more time residing in this Upper Room, and it is from this place that, although one is still aware of what “should” be, love can be given with no strings attached…no crushed expectations…and in fact with great enthusiasm and elation. And from where does this joy come? It gushes forth both from the love being given, but also from the realization that no empty hole results when it is not returned – because the One who sets “free indeed” …Jesus our Savior, brother, friend, and lover (Isaiah 53:4-5, 10; Proverbs 18:24; Luke 8:21; John 1:12-13, 15:15; Song of Solomon 5:16)... is continuously filling up to overflowing the one who has joined with Him. Forever glory and praise to His Excellency and to His Beautiful Name. Lord, make us free to love without expectations.
In His Love,
Terri
