May 22, 2025: Living Joyful Life : Remaining in His Love

The Story: The Withered Rose

Once, a young girl named Tara received a beautiful rose plant from her grandmother. “Take care of it well,” her grandmother said. “Water it every day, give it sunlight, and keep it close.” For the first few weeks, Tara did exactly that. The rose bloomed, filling her small balcony with fragrance and beauty.

But slowly, Tara got busy. School, friends, social media, and weekend plans took over. The rose pot stayed in a corner, forgotten. Weeks later, Tara returned to find the leaves dry, the petals withered, and the plant barely alive.

Heartbroken, she ran to her grandmother and asked, “Why did the rose die?” Her grandmother replied gently, “It wasn’t enough to plant it. You had to remain close to it—nurture it with love. Just like that, you must remain in love—not only give it once, but live in it every day.

Scripture Reflection – John 15:9–11

> “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love.

> If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love,

> just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in His love.

> I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” (John 15:9–11)

These verses are part of Jesus’ final conversation with His disciples before the Passion. Imagine the scene: it’s quiet, intimate, filled with emotion. Jesus is not giving a set of rules; He’s opening His heart.

He is saying, “I love you—just as deeply, purely, and powerfully as the Father loves Me.” And then comes the invitation: “Remain in my love.”

What Does It Mean to “Remain” in His Love?

To remain is to stay connected. Like the rose needed water and care, we need a living, daily connection with Jesus. It's not about checking religious boxes or impressing others with our holiness. It's about relationship.

Jesus says:

* Obedience is the fruit of love, not the price of it.

* Joy is the reward of remaining, not a result of chasing the world.

Why This Matters for Youth Today

Let’s be honest. Many young people today are exhausted—emotionally, mentally, and even spiritually. We are told to chase dreams, likes, and achievements. But even when we reach them, why do we still feel empty?

Because the heart was made to remain in Love— a Person, not a lifestyle.

Jesus is not offering temporary happiness. He is offering complete joy—joy that remains even when circumstances change.

3 Simple Ways to Remain in His Love Daily

1. Talk to Him Honestly: Start your day with a short prayer. Tell Him your fears, plans, and thanks. Like talking to a best friend.

2. Read the Word: Even a few verses a day from the Gospels can connect you to His heart.

3. Live His Love: Forgive, be kind, help someone without expecting anything in return. Loving like Jesus keeps you rooted in Him.

Carry-Home Message:

True joy is not found in doing more, owning more, or being more—it’s found in remaining more in Jesus' love.

Let’s not be like that withered rose—beautiful once, but forgotten. Let’s stay rooted, cared for, and alive in Christ. In His love, your life will not just survive—it will bloom.