The Watchman's Diary

“We have come to know love by this—Yeshua laid down His life for us, and we also ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. But if someone has material possessions and sees his brother in need and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God abide in him? Children, let us not love with word or talk, but in deed and truth!” (1John 3:16-18).

One of the most oft-repeated verses of scripture is John 3:16 – “For God so love the world that He gave His one and onlySon, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life“. These words, uttered by Yeshua, express God’s perfect love for us. In it we find no bias or favoritism. God’s love is not limited to a select people, race, or genealogy; His love is for the world, and He expresses it by sending His Son to pay the ultimately penalty for our sins. 

God’s love did not and does not end at the cross! He continues to express His love for us through the Holy Spirit, whom He sent on Shavuot (Pentecost) as Yeshua promised (John 14:26). 

What about you, how are you a vessel through whom God is pouring out His love on others? The Apostle John said that we have come to know love through Yeshua’s sacrifice and that we should show this same love by doing the same for others. Does the love of God abide in you and is this made clear by your deeds? We share this world with cruel and unloving people. Some of these people may be family members, co-workers, friends, and colleagues. We who call on the name of the Lord have an awesome responsibility to show His love to everyone we meet, regardless of how they treat us. 

Today, if you call on the name of the Lord but have not lived in a manner that is a true expression of His love, make that part of your resolution, but not for the coming year alone. God’s love is neither seasonal nor conditional and neither should ours be. Love your neighbor and care for others in the same way the Lord loves and cares for you. Yes, you may fall short but remember, we have an advocate who knows our shortcomings and is willing and able to forgive. When you fall, get up and get moving again. Remember, “Love never fails” (1 Corinthian 13:8).

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