Friday, February 26, 2016
John 15:13 "Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends."
THE LOVE OF JESUS
We often hear this passage quoted in our society. It is especially common when tragic events hit our community and lives are taken in the line of defense. We think first of: soldiers, police officers, and firefighters. Very often, they are called to lay down their lives for others. We owe these civil servants a debt of gratitude for their self-sacrifice, but in reality we all could be called upon to do the same, the title doesn't matter.
There's nothing wrong with applying these words to our lives and remembering the great virtue of self-sacrifice. But let's also remember Him of whom they were first spoken. These were the words of Jesus just hours before His death on the cross. He was speaking of laying down His life for the disciples, and perhaps hinting at the notion that they would one day be called to do the same. Strictly speaking, this passage is pure gospel. It is all about Jesus for us-- offering His life in the place of the whole world of sinners. At a time when no one else could help, Jesus befriended humanity and laid down His life. That is the greatest love. Anything we can do that resembles that act of service is a reflection of what He did.
Let us be thankful for the opportunity to follow our Savior, but may we never allow what we do to block out what He has done for us.
