This is the second of a series of three sermons on texts from 1 John, all titled “Love Letter,” which is the focus of that ancient letter. In today’s reading the author emphasizes that Jesus came not only through water but through blood. This may have been an argument against early gnostics who believed that Jesus was not fully human. The writer emphasizes that Jesus was, indeed, fully human and in this way Jesus, and thus God, truly understands the human condition. This is also demonstrated in the act of communion, and also in the act of donating blood – giving life and sharing that life with others.