Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ. Jude 1

The Fall season is a special time of the year. The earth prepares for the cold of winter as we take notice of the colorful leaves that paint the country and hill sides. People begin to dawn their winter coats to preserve themself from the chills in the air. In times past, many homes were filled the smell of fresh apples being cooked, canned and preserved the cold months ahead. The practice of canning and preserving has faded and been replaced by refrigeration and the availability of market items at local groceries. These modern conveniences have opened the way for consumerism so that little thought is given for putting away or preserving for the future. It is something we don’t think about because it’s taken care of by someone else. The scripture passage is a great reminder of the One who keeps us for the change that lies ahead and our future in heaven. The child of God is “preserved in Jesus Christ” for the new season in heaven. The phrase “preserved in Jesus Christ” is also translated “kept for Jesus Christ.” Through faith in Jesus Christ, we are washed by His blood (1 Cor 6:11), cleansed from sin and all unrighteousness, and “sealed for the day of redemption” (Eph 4:30).  Jesus, by His own blood, preserves us and keeps us for Himself until the day that we will be with Him and be like Him (1 Jn 3:2). Yet, while we anticipate the new season of His soon return, we are now kept for the season of His harvest. Our spirit is being kept for His Spirit. Our soul is being kept that His mind may transform us. Our heart is being kept as the bowl of a fountain that His love may flow in and out of us. Our body is being kept that He may use our members for the glory of the Father’s will. Dear friend, while we await His soon return, renew your commitment to Jesus as a faithful laborer in His harvest. “The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few” (Matt 9:37). Will you answer His call and so labor in the kingdom that you offer yourself “a sweet aroma to the Lord” (Lev 2:2). My friend, we are kept by the blood Jesus, seasoned by His love, and sealed with the abiding presence of the Holy Spirit. We are kept for Him and for His good work that “all men…be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Tim 2:4). Father thank You for Your love, Your mercy, and Your faithfulness to keep all by faith in Jesus Christ. In the blessed Name of Jesus. Amen.