"There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” - John 15:13 NLT
Every year in the month of May, the United States celebrates Memorial Day. This is a national holiday to honor and remember those who have lost their lives while serving in the U.S. military. It is a special day because without the sacrifice of those who have served to protect our nation, we very well may not have many of the freedoms we enjoy today. So, although Memorial Day can be a day of grief, it is also a day of celebration.
The great 19th century preacher Charles H. Spurgeon once said, “Jesus has borne the death penalty on our behalf. Behold the wonder! There He hangs upon the cross! This is the greatest sight you will ever see.” How could the death of Jesus upon the cross be “the greatest sight you will ever see?” Because the sacrifice of Jesus purchased our freedom from sin and death. It was the ultimate display of God’s infinitely great love for us.
Today, know that you are deeply loved by God. John 3:16 states “for this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” What a gift to the world! Jesus calls you friend. His desire is for you to know Him intimately and to live life with Him by your side. Receive the love of the Father today and know that He loves you so much that He was willing to give His greatest gift to you, His one and only son.
HIGHLIGHTED QUOTE: “Jesus has borne the death penalty on our behalf. Behold the wonder! There He hangs upon the cross! This is the greatest sight you will ever see.” - Charles H. Spurgeon
TIP OF THE DAY: Remember, Easter is not the only time to think about the greatest act of love ever made. Take a moment today to thank Jesus for His sacrifice on the cross for you.
TALKING TO GOD: Dear Lord, thank you for sending Your Son Jesus from heaven to earth to die in my place. How could I ever thank you enough? Your love for me is so great I cannot even fully understand it. Help me to live every day from a place of knowing I am deeply loved by You.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
- Take a moment to ask yourself today, “How often do I think about the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross and how has it changed my life forever?”
- What are some practical ways that you can be like Jesus and serve your family and friends this week?
- What are some other Scriptures you know of that speak to God’s great love for us?
