For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 (NLT)
Okay, I confess. I find the depth of God’s love for mankind and for me, individually, a bit difficult to fully grasp. I sing about the deep, deep love of Jesus. I discuss it in my weekly Bible study. I even quote Scriptures about it. And yet its scope escapes me.
One morning recently I picked up my Bible and plopped into my favorite leather loveseat to enjoy quiet time with the Lord. I began that time with a prayer: “Father, would You please give me an evidence of Your love today?” I half-suspected the answer would appear in the form of an unexpected delight—a phone call from a long-lost friend, a word of encouragement from someone I respect, or a check in the mail, perhaps. My suspicions proved wrong.
A thought, like a quiet voice, popped into my mind the moment I ended my prayer: I’ve already shown you in the best way possible. Remember? I sent my only Son to die on your behalf. I sat in silence for a few minutes. My thoughts focused on Calvary and the dark day Jesus gave His life so that I might live. An intimate, unforgettable God-moment that was, one I’ll cherish for the rest of my life.
God displays His love for us daily in myriad ways. Sometimes they arrive as delightful surprises. Other times, I suspect, we take them for granted. But sending Jesus to die for us so that we might have abundant and eternal life tops all. Our present understanding is limited, but someday we’ll “get” it. What a day that will be!
Faith Step: Take a few minutes to reflect on Christ’s love. List five ways in which you have experienced it, and then thank Him for His goodness.
