What Is An “Abundant Life?”

05.5.17 | Pulpit Posts

Our world is full of unhappy and dissatisfied people. For this reason, people everywhere are looking for answers to the emptiness they feel inside. They will try anything, if it might bring them some sort of satisfaction or happiness. Perhaps this explains why there is so much drug dependency, alcohol abuse, criminal behavior, depression, emotional distress and psychological disorders.

There is an answer to the eternal question, “How do I find happiness and satisfaction in life?” Jesus states in John 10:10 the purpose of why he came. He said, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life to the full.” What did Jesus mean when He said that we can have “life abundantly” to the full.

A good dictionary will define the word “full” as “complete.” Perfect, being at the highest or greatest degree, the maximum.” So when the word is in reference to one’s life, it would mean a life that is complete, not lacking in anything essential. The good news is that not only did Jesus come to save us, but he also came to give us an abundant life.

This tells me that God desires that His children are living a life full of happiness, peace, and a genuine friendship with Him. Through Jesus, it is without a doubt, still available today.

What is “Abundant Life?” It’s a life found in Christ. Abundant living is a life that is filled with the things that are good for us. A life of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, faithfulness, compassion, humility, enthusiasm, confidence, honesty, a relationship with God. Abundant life is full of those things money can’t buy and all come from God, who is the giver of all good things.

Abundant life is living life to the fullest, not merely existing or simply trying to make a living. In Matthew 6:25, Jesus says, “not to worry about our life, what we will eat or drink, or what we will wear.”

Abundant life is not necessarily a life of comfort and ease.

It is not dependent on outside circumstances.

It is not glamorous, flashy or outwardly impressive.

It is not necessarily obtained quickly.

There is no magic formula. God graciously gives it to all who seek it. “Ask and it will be given to you, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives, they who seeks, finds; and to they who knock, the door will be opened.” Matthew 7:7-9

If you have not experienced or discovered the abundant life, the most important thing you can do, is to agree that Jesus in John 10:10, really has come so that YOU may enjoy life to the full.

Rev. Robert Jacobs

Rev. Robert Jacobs

THE LATEST

Stay current on activity at the Soup Kitchen, guest stories, thoughts from Clergy, news and events.

Subscribe to receive the latest news, events, volunteer opportunities, and more — right to your inbox.

Church of the Holy Apostles

We are an open, inclusive Christian Church celebrating in the Episcopal tradition.

Sunday Service is held 11AM (on site and via livestream). Weekday services are held on Zoom.

LEARN MORE

For Newcomers

Learn about our faith community and explore ways to connect with our work and worship.

Sermons

Reflections on Holy Scripture from our Clergy.

History

Founded in 1844, with a focus on social activism and the desire for social justice.

Clergy, Staff & Vestry

The Vestry is the governing body of the Church of the Holy Apostles.

MUSIC

Music commands a strong presence at the Church of the Holy Apostles.

Space Rental

Host your next meeting or event in our landmark building.

Soup Kitchen & Pantry

Nourishing hungry New Yorkers since 1982 in an atmosphere of respect and hospitality.

LEARN MORE
Daily meal service

Serving a free, nutritious meal every weekday from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm.

Meal outreach

Distributing bagged breakfasts and lunches throughout Chelsea and Hell’s Kitchen.

About the soup kitchen

Learn more about our mission, our history, our performance, who we are, and what we do.

Pantry Program

Providing fresh and nutritious groceries to food-insecure New Yorkers.

Sunday Supper

Bridging generations and building community over a monthly family style meal.

Give Layers of Love this Winter

Help Keep Our Guests Warm this Winter.

Social Support

Meeting basic needs, stabilizing lives, and supporting individuals and families to achieve their goals.

LEARN MORE
SOCIAL SERVICES

Addressing the needs of the whole person through basic needs, counseling, and referrals.

Classes

Offering learning and skill-building opportunities.

Community Partnership

Partnering with others to expand the services offered to our guests.

Get Involved

Holy Apostles is a great place to channel your time, talents and generosity for good.

LEARN MORE
Volunteer

Make a difference in the lives of New Yorkers experiencing homelessness and hunger.

Partner

Join our efforts to serve others and provide for people who are vulnerable.

Donate

Your gift provides food, community, and hope to New Yorkers in need.

The Latest

Stay up-to-date on all happenings at Holy Apostles.

VIEW ALL
Food For The Soul

The official blog of Holy Apostles Soup Kitchen.

Voices of Our Community

Guest stories, poetry, and more.

EVENTS

See our calendar of events.

Church Pulpit Posts

Read weekly meditations written by our clergy.

Newsroom

Holy Apostles in the news.