Tuesday 13 January 2026
Whoever says, “I abide in him,” ought to walk just as he walked. (v. 6)
Background
'The Tests of Life' (available online) is a 1909 commentary on 1 John by Robert Law. He explores three key themes in the letter – the moral life, good relationships and what we believe. He describes the path through the letter as a spiral staircase returning to the tests a number of times as we read on.
Two of the tests appear in today’s reading. The author understands that his readers are not perfect but rejoices in the forgiveness that is available for the whole world in Jesus (vs 1-2). Faith cannot be earned by what we do but the seed of faith, once planted, requires active care and is intended to bear fruit. Living in a disciplined way draws us more fully into the love and presence of God.
To get a driving licence we have to pass a theory exam and a practical driving test. In this letter there are two practical evaluations of our behaviour and relationship. Later in the letter there is a probing of the pattern of beliefs (theory?) that attracted us to Jesus and sustains our faith.
Ignatius of Loyola, who founded the Jesuits, developed a pattern of prayer for the end of the day which he called 'The Examen'. It is a systematic reflection rather than an exam! We are invited to find God in all things and to pay careful attention to the Holy Spirit moving in our daily lives. We take a magnifying glass to the ordinary. The Examen invites us to encounter God, express gratitude for the gift of each day, and to commit to make up for any mistakes we may have made. It is a flexible pattern able to respond to the signs of the times. There are lots of resources about it online.
Ignatius’ core belief was “love is shown more in deeds than in words.” Did I John encourage this approach? For Ignatius love is not, or perhaps even how we feel inside or what our good intentions are towards another person, but what we do to demonstrate love.
To Ponder:
- What memories do you have of taking tests? Have there been particular tests that, because you passed or learnt something from them, have been important in your life?
- How do you reflect on your daily life – your work, relationships and behaviour? How often?
Prayer
Brother, sister let me serve you
Let me be as Christ to you;
Pray that I may have the grace
To let you be my servant, too. Richard Gillard
Bible notes author: The Revd Bob Sneddon
Bob Sneddon is a retired presbyter who lives on the south coast of England. He has had five varied circuit appointments over some 40 years and before that worked in India for a year. In retirement he is enjoying making a garden and walking.