Jesus told His disciples to love one another “as I have loved you” (John 13:34). That wouldn’t be so hard if the love Jesus displayed was primarily the write-a-cheque or call-once-a-month kind of love. But Jesus set the bar immeasurably high. Jesus’ kind of love touched the skin of a leper and washed the feet of a soon-to-be betrayer. He didn’t mind interruption by another’s demands, even those of a person all others disdained. Jesus had the uncanny ability to look straight into a person’s soul to see the deepest need there.
Is that an impossible example to follow? You bet it is! That’s why God sent the Holy Spirit to live inside us and empower us with His supernatural love. Only when “plugged in” to that power will His followers stand out in their treatment of others and of one another. Then people will take notice and say, “My, how they love one another!” Let these resources set you on the path of loving with the Saviour’s love.
If you could be any animal, which one would you choose? No one ever chooses to be a sheep, and yet that’s how we’re described in the Bible. We are all like sheep needing a shepherd. And we have one—Jesus Christ. He guides, protects, and keeps us in the right rut.
When your life goes sideways and bad things happen, it’s easy to question God’s love. But it doesn’t make it less true. God loves us, even when life doesn’t make sense.
Knowing God is foundational to our existence. Apart from that knowledge, we are doomed to grope our way through a maze of meaningless earthly pursuits. Only those who know God will find their way to true purpose and meaning.
God wants you to love Him with all your heart, not just a part of it. He’s looking for men and women whose hearts are completely His, and who are willing to make a difference.
Have you ever seen a dog reach the end of his leash? Once he does he comes straight to a halt. We all reach the end of our own figurative leashes with each other and with God at one point or another. The good news is God will always forgive us and always extend His grace to us, no matter what. We just need to accept it. Now shouldn’t we do the same with others?
A cross around a neck, an “ichthus” fish on the back of a car, a well-crafted sermon. None of these is the mark of a Christian—it is love. Like the old song says, “They will know we are Christians by our love.” Honest, transparent love.
How often do you give the gift of love to others? If it’s in words then use the word “I” and include the word “love” and end with the word “you.” Real love is resilient. It never gives up. It stands firm.
There has only ever been one perfect gift, and it was given more than 2,000 years ago. This gift is too wonderful for words. In fact, the Bible says it’s indescribable.
The first Christmas was simple, not a lavish event. Jesus’ birth remains the purest and most beautiful story in all of history.
Christmas is right around the corner. How about filling a cup full of kindness? An authentic extension of love to someone who doesn’t deserve it. Now there’s a new idea for a Christmas gift that would never be forgotten.
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