The word ABIDE, in its fullest usage means ‘to make your permanent dwelling place’. This helps us discern the message that our Lord is seeking to convey to His disciples, and ultimately to us. What, then, does it mean to “make the Lord Jesus our permanent dwelling place”? Let’s simplify this definition, and say that Jesus is instructing us to make Him our “home” as He makes His “home” in us. Think about what “home” means to us:

Home is where your heart is; it is where you want to be (especially during holidays).

Home is the place to which you return, the place to which you are eager to get back to (e.g., when you’ve been on vacation).

Home is where you feel comfortable, and can really be yourself.

Home is a place of safety and security.

Home is where you bring your friends when you wish to have fellowship with them.

Home is our base of operations; it is at the center of what we do.

Home is where you find your strength for life; it is where you eat and sleep.

Home is where the people and the things we love the most are found.

Isn’t this what Jesus Christ should be for the Christian? Shouldn’t He be our place of refuge and security? Should He not be the source of our life and strength? Shouldn’t He be the reason for our fellowship with others? Shouldn’t He be where our heart is?  Is He?