Sunday, April 30

1 John 3:16 – This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.

Jesus is our perfect example of love. There is no difference between how God loves us with His heart and how He loves us in His actions. Jesus has loved us from the very beginning. Jesus loved us when he became human and walked the earth; living perfectly. Jesus demonstrated His love for us in His death for us (Rom 5:8). Jesus loves us still; in the aftermath of His resurrection and glorification. He has lovingly redeemed as many as have faith in Him. Christ has redeemed us–not only in part that we would be saved, but also in the fullness of our holy purpose to be like Him in all we do and in all we are. We have been made in His image, made a new creation Christ; that we might love, even as He loves. Wow.

 Jesus calls us to love others. He tells us to love others in the same way we love ourselves. He admonishes us to put the needs/concerns of others before our own. In today’s Scripture (1 John 3:16), God leads us to lay down our own lives for our brothers and sisters within the Church. While this includes being willing to die for a loved one, it is not limited to that application. Rather, Christ is calling for His followers to give themselves fully to the well-being of others; to be fully selfless in our love (as a response to His fully selfless love for us).  By the help and power of His Holy Spirit, may we consider His words and love others as we respond.

 Let us not become disenchanted or distracted by circumstance or situation. Instead, may we find appropriate comfort, contentment, hope, and joy Christ’s victory. In sure-to-come times of difficulty, disappointment, and unreciprocated love, may we find rest in the eternal promise of the glory of the paradise that awaits us in the presence of our Saviour. Forever, with Jesus.

 Prayer Topic:

Jesus, help me to be more like you. Give me a greater desire to love like you, even if it means I am left with nothing. Yet, even if I have nothing, I have everything; because I have You. Lord, You are all I need. Help me to remember that You are sufficient as I lay down my life for others. To God be the glory!

Pastor Bill