Hey Jude

Here we have the second book written by a half brother of Jesus. Remembering in earthly terms it is only possible to be Jesus half brother. Jude at some point has gone through quite a conversion to the ways of his brother. In the Gospel accounts we see the family of Jesus, save his mother, ridiculing and challenging Jesus. Now Jude writes in the name of not just his brother, but his leader and redeemer.

While Jude was writing a couple thousand years ago, the writing could be speaking, in fact is, to us today. Basically what it all comes down to is people will follow their own desires. We as humanity left unchecked will begin to model and behave in ways inconsistent with being part of the kingdom of God. We are encouraged to hold to our faith, pray and wait with expectation for the return of Christ. Further, while we wait we are to live lives full of mercy, love and holiness.

In light of the charge to live such a lofty life, it is obvious we will fall short. Then we get to the sending.

"To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy-- to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore!" (Jude 24-25 NIV emphasis mine)

It is through Jesus and Jesus alone that we have a chance of being presented without fault. We cannot attain holiness in our own effort, it is only through the work of the One who calls us. Also note the sending ends with an exclamation. There is joy in this proclamation. These are words that should fire us up. are you fired up? Or did you just read another section of scripture, ho hum?