Our scripture this morning is 1 John 4:16-17 (NLT).
We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love. God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them. And as we live in God, our love grows more perfect. So we will not be afraid on the day of judgment, but we can face him with confidence because we live like Jesus here in this world.
Throughout the letters of John we hear of God’s love for us and our blessing to live in His love and share it with the world. The New Bible Commentary calls this a “mutual indwelling”, that we live in God and He lives in us. This connection is the result of accepting Jesus as our Savior and our call to “live like Jesus here in this world.”
How do we live out His example for us? First, we must remember that our discipleship may not be easy. Jesus warned “If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first” (John 15:18). The world wants its own way, in spite of the love and care Jesus has to offer. We must give the resistant world our love just as He does.
The love God sends is available to all His children, and we are called to be an active part of the kingdom work. We aren’t required to be great orators or prolific authors, just God’s beloved children sharing His love in our everyday interactions. Each of us have the capability and responsibility to carry the Good News everywhere.
Loving Lord, we are amazed that You love us so much and want us to share Your love. Bless us to go in Your name, living out the love by which we were created and giving it away to all Your children. Amen.
