Love Has Come!
November 25, 2020·Deborah Clark
1 John 3:16-18
“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. If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”
The holiday season is upon us! This week is Thanksgiving, and then we jump into December and all the fun of Christmas — the time of year where we celebrate Jesus’ birth. Peace on Earth. Good will toward men. The heavenly host of angels. The baby in the manger…
Jesus coming to earth and being born to a virgin was the beginning. But it wasn’t the end.
In last week’s Pause Bible reading, we were in the Gospel of John. And we saw Jesus’ path to the Cross. That’s why He came as a baby – so He could live a sinless life and pay the price for our sins. Death on the Cross, followed by resurrection was His goal. His purpose on Earth.
How do we know what love is? 1 John tells us — Jesus laid down His life.
And we ought to do the same. We may not be called to physically die for someone. But, perhaps, we can sacrifice in other ways to show love.
Do you have material possessions? A coat? A meal? A pair of socks? Perhaps a glass of cold water or maybe a cup of steaming hot coffee?
If you see a brother or sister in need, can you SHOW them the love of God?
James 2 tells us that faith without works is dead. Perhaps the same is true of love….
Don’t just say “I love you” or “God bless you.” Show it. Live it. Act it out. It will most definitely mean sacrifice. A small sacrifice to you could mean the world to someone in need. That, accompanied with a smile and some kindness, could make someone’s day or even whole week.
As we enter this season of giving thanks and Christmas cheer, let’s acknowledge that 2020 is a year like no other for us. But come what may, thanks to Jesus, we do have much to be grateful for and much to celebrate. May I encourage you to ask the Lord, “How can I SHOW love this year? What action can I take?” And I believe God will show you something. A step of sacrifice. A step of service. A step of love.
Love truly has come! Let’s show it to the world this season.
Pastor Deborah Clark
